Five Hollins University students visited Virginia’s capitol Monday, Feb. 16 to participate in the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia’s “Thanks for TAG Day.”
“TAG” refers to the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant program, which provides annual grants to state residents who are full-time students at eligible private non-profit colleges or universities — including Hollins.
“Thanks for TAG Day,” organized by the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia (CICV), provided student advocates with the opportunity to meet with legislators and staff and thank them for their support for the TAG program.
On Monday, Emmabeth Whitehurst ’27, Anika Tejnecky ’28, Mali Ruppel ’28, Jamila Anderson ’29, and Karen Robles Nolasco ’29 visited with Senator Jennifer Boysko ’89 and other members of the General Assembly who serve Roanoke City and Roanoke County to advocate for renewed funding for TAG.
Students also dined with Richmond-area alumnae Sunday evening, attended a Senate floor session, and enjoyed an appearance by Governor Abigail Spanberger. Vice President for Student Success, Well-being, and Belonging Tiffany Hinton and Christine Holt Fix ’97 accompanied the students in their advocacy efforts.
“The TAG program allows student choice and financially supports Virginia residents who want to attend a private college in Virginia, keeping our talent pool in the state and promoting small universities across the Commonwealth,” Fix said. “As a TAG recipient myself, I was proud to spread the message.”