WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement regarding the retirement of Virginia Tech President Charles Steger:

“I congratulate my good friend Charles Steger on his retirement. 

“During his tenure, President Steger directed significant growth in the national stature, program quality, enrollment and endowment of Virginia Tech.  He also has molded Tech into a research and development powerhouse that routinely attracts talented graduate and undergraduate students from across the country and around the world.  

“I worked most closely with Dr. Steger during the time I had the privilege of serving as Governor. We worked together to boost the university’s national ranking in research. We also worked closely in 2004 in ensuring that the Virginia Tech Hokies would be invited to join the Atlantic Coast Conference.

“Whoever follows Dr. Steger will inherit a healthier and more dynamic Virginia Tech than ever, and President Steger should take considerable pride in his 14 years of service as his life moves into its next chapter.”