Colin Roberts

Colin Roberts stands committed to community, to compassion, to belonging, and to well-being.

“What has truly captured my attention is how Colin advocates for others,” said his nominator. “In very unfortunate moments when racism or other hatred on campus arises, Colin is always first to my office. He has high expectations for university leadership and insists on accountability.”

When private messages by fellow students emerged that clearly affronted the university’s Principles of Community, Colin used his platform as President of the Class of 2024 to help ensure that Virginia Tech’s leadership addressed the issue directly.

“We are a diverse class office that represents a diverse student body,” Roberts said, “so we have to live up to that diversity, make sure their voices are heard, and let them know that we see them, that we know these issues are going on, and that we’re going to do something about it as best as we can.”

“His honesty and forthrightness are refreshing,” his nominator said, “as is his willingness to roll up his sleeves and work side-by-side with others who care about a better and more inclusive environment.”

When many students faced mental health challenges after two years of the pandemic, Colin found a way to be part of the solution. In a Student Affairs digital newsletter distributed to fellow Hokies and their families, his student perspective was courageous and honest.

“I have struggled with my own mental health problems,” he wrote. “While I am able to smile and laugh and hang out with my friends, these issues are continuously in my head, and it makes it difficult to focus on school or my family and friends. I struggle with being vulnerable, I struggle with reaching out, I struggle with expressing how I truly feel.”

While Colin struggled as so many other Hokies did, his courage to share his difficulty so openly and from his position of prominence helped his fellow students know that they were not as alone as they may have otherwise felt.

Colin has also worked with Cook Counseling Center to provide presentations on mental health topics to students.

“I’m passionate about service and helping others in the best way possible,” said Colin. “Making sure that those around me are taken care of and heard is extremely important to me."

Colin’s circle of compassion extends beyond those he sees each day. "No one in this world should have to live in constant fear, turmoil, and oppression of their human rights,” he said. “I champion political, social, and educational freedom of all oppressed people.”

“A courageous leader is ready to be the voice of their team, ensure their well-being, and create an atmosphere where everyone feels safe, welcome, and comfortable,” Colin said. I feel the utmost moral duty to, at the very least, speak up.”

For saying the difficult things that help others be heard, I am proud to present the Aspire! Award for PREPARE FOR A LIFE OF COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP to Colin Roberts.