In 1924, the Catholic Campus Ministry at Virginia Tech was founded as a campus club under the name Newman Community, with the support of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. The Newman Club and St. Mary’s served the needs of Catholic Tech students until 1963, when Father Paul Gallagher established the Newman House thanks to a generous home donation from Ms. Ella Russell. Sunday Masses moved to War Memorial Chapel in 1966 where they are still offered today. For the past 100 years, CCM@VT has expanded upon the University’s moto, Ut Prosim (That I may serve), by revealing the role of our Master: Ut Serviam Deo (That I may serve God). The ministry has continued to serve hundreds of students and has become one of the largest Catholic Campus Ministries at a public university on the East Coast.

We welcome all alumni, parents, and community members to join us in celebrating 100 years of faith, community, and service on the Virginia Tech campus. Join us for one of our centennial events to reconnect with your fellow Catholic Hokie alumni, share memories of your time in community, and learn more about the plans for the next 100 years of the CCM@VT.

Centennial Mass and Banquet with Bishop Knestout: October 20, 2024

Enjoy a Fall weekend at Virginia Tech and celebrate 100 years of Catholic Hokies. Bishop Knestout will be celebrating a special Centennial Mass at 10 a.m. on campus Sunday morning followed by a lunch banquet at the University Club in Lane Stadium at 12:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend the centennial Mass. Tickets for the Centennial Banquet are $30 per person and can be purchased here.

Saturday morning there will be a service opportunity after the 9 a.m. Mass at the Newman House for anyone who would like to participate. Saturday evening there will be a ministry social hour. More details will be shared soon.

Regional Receptions: Stay Tuned

Our ministry will also be hosting several regional celebrations for those who cannot make it back to Blacksburg for our 100th Anniversary. More details to come soon.