The Virginia Tech community is saddened by the passing of Irving Peddrew III, who passed away at 88 years old on May 11.
Peddrew holds a significant place in history as the first Black student admitted not only to Virginia Tech but also to any predominantly white four-year institution in the 11 former Confederate states, as stated by Virginia Tech.
As the sole Black student among the 3,322 enrolled at the time, Peddrew faced challenges, such as residing and dining off-campus due to segregation policies, during the year preceding the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court ruling.
Although he withdrew from the university after his junior year, Peddrew was honored with an engineering degree by the university in 2016.
Peddrew’s presence at Virginia Tech inspired other Black students, including Charlie L. Yates, who later became the first Black graduate of the university.
In recognition of his legacy, a dormitory was renamed Peddrew-Yates Hall in 2003, accommodating over 200 students and serving as the hub for the Ujima Black culture living-learning community.
Despite not being able to attend his own Ring Dance due to concerns, Peddrew was honored by being named the namesake for the 2023 class ring after serving as the commencement keynote speaker in 2017.
Ed Baine, rector of the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors and a member of the Class of 1995, reflected on Peddrew’s impact, emphasizing his role as a pioneer and expressing gratitude for his contributions in opening doors for subsequent generations of Black students. Baine extended condolences on behalf of the Hokie family, acknowledging Peddrew’s enduring connection to the university community.
