New Faces, New Vision: Meet Virginia Tech’s Board of Visitors Appointments
Gov. Glenn Youngkin recently announced the appointment of five individuals to the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors. These new members bring a diverse set of experiences and expertise to their roles, promising to contribute significantly to the university’s future initiatives.
Starlette Barker Johnson, hailing from Dallas, Texas, currently holds the position of board chair at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and serves on the board for Jack’s Family Restaurant Group. Her career boasts leadership roles with renowned global brands, including KFC and Dave & Buster’s. Johnson earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from Virginia Tech and an MBA from Duke University. She has been deeply involved with her alma mater, serving on various boards and councils, including the Virginia Tech Foundation Board and the Pamplin College of Business Advisory Board.
Ryan McCarthy, a native of McLean, Virginia, served as U.S. Secretary of the Army from 2019 to 2021, following a distinguished career that spanned both public service and the private sector. He was recognized for his service in the 75th Ranger Regiment during the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan and was later inducted into the U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame in 2019. McCarthy’s private sector experience includes roles at HSBC and Lockheed Martin, where he oversaw the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the Virginia Military Institute and an MBA from the University of Maryland.
Jim Miller, a resident of Waterford, Virginia, has dedicated much of his career to supporting the U.S. intelligence community and Department of Defense. He has founded and led multiple companies focused on national security solutions, including Quantum Leap and Applied Security Inc. Miller earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science from Virginia Tech and has been actively involved with the university, serving on advisory boards and being recognized for his contributions to engineering excellence.
J. Pearson, originally from Fort Myers Beach, Florida, has a background rooted in Virginia, having graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in agricultural economics. Pearson’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Carry-On Trailer in 1996, which has grown significantly to encompass multiple plants across several states. He currently serves as executive chairman of Vehicle Accessory Inc., another successful venture in the vehicle accessories industry. Pearson is deeply committed to Virginia Tech, having been recognized as a Foremost Benefactor and actively participating in alumni and advisory boards.
Jeanne Stosser, based in Blacksburg, Virginia, has made substantial contributions to Southwest Virginia as president of SAS Construction and CMG Leasing. Her expertise in real estate development spans both residential and commercial properties, making her a pivotal figure in the regional business landscape. Stosser’s involvement with Virginia Tech includes membership in several donor societies and advisory boards, reflecting her commitment to the university’s growth and development across various sectors.
Virginia Tech President Tim Sands expressed optimism about the impact these new board members will have on the university’s future. He highlighted their diverse backgrounds and extensive expertise as invaluable assets that will help shape Virginia Tech’s strategic direction. Sands emphasized the importance of enhancing the university’s global reputation while ensuring accessibility and affordability for Virginia families.
In conclusion, the appointment of these five individuals to the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors marks a significant moment for the university. Their collective experience in business, defense, entrepreneurship, and real estate development promises to enrich Virginia Tech’s governance and strategic vision, fostering continued growth and excellence in higher education. As they assume their roles, the expectation is high for their contributions to further elevate Virginia Tech’s impact regionally, nationally, and internationally.