Timothy D. Sands is the 16th president of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a professor in the College of Engineering. Since joining Virginia Tech in 2014, he has worked collaboratively with university leadership, the Board of Visitors, and the Commonwealth of Virginia to advance the university as a leading modern, global, land-grant institution.

Under President Sands’ leadership, undergraduate enrollment has increased while maintaining a strong sense of community rooted in the university’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). Student interest in Virginia Tech has grown significantly, with applications from first-time prospective students doubling.

Virginia Tech remains a leader in research and innovation, with a focus on expanding its impact as a top-tier land-grant research university. Key initiatives include growth in health sciences, computing, and technology partnerships, as well as new academic and research facilities.

President Sands has led efforts to transform the university’s campuses through expanded living-learning environments, transdisciplinary collaboration, and sustainability initiatives.

An accomplished researcher, Sands has published more than 250 refereed papers and holds 21 patents in electronic and optoelectronic materials and devices. His research focuses on nanocomposite materials, energy systems, and advanced technologies.

Before joining Virginia Tech, he served as executive vice president for academic affairs and provost of Purdue University and held faculty and research leadership roles at the University of California, Berkeley and Bell Communications Research.

Sands earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from the University of California, Berkeley.