Racial Tensions Surface in VMI Contract Extension Debate
Lead
Racial concerns have emerged within the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) board’s deliberations over renewing the contract of its first Black superintendent, Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins. Virginia Democratic lawmakers are reportedly raising concerns that the board may consider race in its decision-making process.
Rep. Cline’s Letter
Rep. Ben Cline (R-Va.), a board member at VMI, has written a letter to the clerks of the Virginia House of Delegates and Virginia Senate requesting an ethics probe into Sen. Jennifer Carroll-Foy (D-Prince William). Cline alleges that Carroll-Foy expressed concerns to a VMI board member linking contract renewal to state funding repercussions.
Carroll-Foy’s Statement
Carroll-Foy, a VMI graduate, has stated that she is acting in the best interests of the institute. She reportedly told a board member, "I am just trying to help VMI… Cedric is African American. The leadership of the General Assembly is African American. Your board appointments and budget amendments are in peril. You can fix this by giving Cedric a four-year contract extension."
Ethics Concerns
Cline’s letter raises ethical concerns over Carroll-Foy’s comments. He believes her actions are "unbecoming, inappropriate, and ethically questionable." He also alleges that other lawmakers have connected race or diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) considerations to the contract renewal debate.
Speaker Scott’s Response
Virginia House Speaker Don Scott (D-Portsmouth) and Senate Leader L. Louise Lucas (D-Portsmouth) have reportedly not immediately responded to requests for comment. However, Scott has previously stated that he would like to see Wins’ contract extended.
Governor Youngkin’s Position
Governor Glenn Youngkin has expressed support for his appointees to the VMI board, stating that they are "deeply committed to VMI and its mission." He believes the board will act in the best interests of the institute and the Commonwealth.
VMI’s History
VMI is the oldest state military institution in the United States, founded in 1839. Notable alumni include General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, George Marshall, General George Patton, and Mel Brooks.
Conclusion
The contract renewal debate at VMI has taken on racial overtones, with Democratic lawmakers expressing concerns that race could influence the board’s decision. Ethics inquiries have been initiated into the matter, and the outcome of the contract renewal process remains uncertain.
