Walter Dickey

Through an insatiable thirst for understanding and seeking out new challenges to expand his intellectual horizons, Walter Dickey embraces opportunities that foster curiosity and critical thinking. 

“One of Walt's most admirable qualities is his ability to encourage others to join in the pursuit of knowledge,” said his nominator. “As an administrative assistant and student leader with New Student and Family Programs, he played an instrumental role in organizing teams and creating inclusive practice and training to promote active discourse among his peers.”

Walter has served New Student and Family Programs with a willingness to step in and learn new things, commitment to growth, and hard work.

Through that work, Walter has been able to discover his personal beliefs and challenge his assumptions. From his attitude of curiosity, he has inspired fellow students to venture beyond their comfort zones, to question the status quo, and to challenge existing beliefs – all while maintaining a positive attitude. 

Throughout his time at Virginia Tech, Walter has consistently showcased his passion for exploring and for acquiring knowledge.

In addition to his academic endeavors, Walter engages with faculty members in the School of Neuroscience, seeking mentorship and guidance to develop his understanding further. He actively participates in interdisciplinary discussions by asking a multitude of questions, and he contributes to ongoing research initiatives by fostering a collaborative and vibrant academic environment. 

Walter’s commitment to unwavering curiosity is not limited to the Virginia Tech campus. He engages the broader community through outreach programs, educational workshops, and volunteering with the student organization he helped found, e-NABLE at Virginia Tech.

Walter said among his achievements at the university, he is most proud of serving as president of e-NABLE, a non-profit organization that creates prosthetic and assistive devices for those in need.

While nurturing his own curiosity by leading e-NABLE, Walter uses the resources of this organization to help inspire K-12 age children to tap into their own curiosity. The “Hokie for a Day” program empowers local fifth graders to participate in STEM labs and explore the world of science organized by the Center for Educational Networks and Impacts.

A senior in the College of Science, School of Neuroscience, Walter plans to attend medical school to pursue his passion for neuroscience as a neurosurgeon.

Walter said he takes inspiration from the limitless potential for discovery in science, where we learn new things about ourselves and our world every day.

“Curiosity means to continuously investigate the things that interest you and to never stop learning,” said Walter. He knows how to turn those questions into answers, too, noting, “There is no limit to what you can accomplish if you sit down and put in the work.”

For his thirst for knowledge and learning, and inspiring questions that improve the lives for others, I am pleased to present the Aspire! Award for COMMIT TO UNWAVERING CURIOSITY to Walter Dickey.