Gillett Ford Memorial Athletic Scholarship

The Weight Club has established an athletic scholarship at Virginia Tech in the name of Gillett Ford. In order to have an endowed scholarship in Gillett's name The Weight Club must raise $25,000. We will be hosting several events throughout the year in support of this effort. If you are interested in volunteering your time to help with any of these events, please let us know. All proceeds, which are tax-deductible, go to the Virginia Tech Athletic Fund.

Gillett Ford, a Blacksburg resident for the last 18 years, passed away in April of 2001. Gillett was a native of Newport News, Virginia and graduated from Warwick High School in 1979. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing Education from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 1984. While a student at Virginia Tech Gillett also excelled in football and track.

Gillett was a loving husband and father who enjoyed spending time with his children. He encouraged his children to pursue their interests; this could be witnessed by the way he spent time with them, through church, school and extracurricular activities, especially sports related.

Gillett gave so much of himself to others in the community, not just his family. He motivated others to do and be their best. One way this was evident was through his coaching efforts. Gillett assisted in coaching the Blacksburg High School track team where he earned the love and respect from the students he coached.

Gillett's sense of humor and uplifting personality will be remembered and missed. He was well known and loved by so many people in this community; this is one way in which we can honor such a special man and at the same time help future athletes pursue their goals.

Thank you and we appreciate your donations. Donation envelopes may be picked up at the main desk of The Weight Club and left with a Front Desk staff member. Donations may also be sent directly to the Virginia Tech Athletic Fund -- P.O. Box 10307, Blacksburg, VA 24062.

(If you are currently a Hokie Club member at any level, your contributions may be designated to this fund and credited toward your requirements)

Please make all checks payable to: Virginia Tech Athletic Fund or VTAF.

Christie Gregg Heslip, General Manager
The Weight Club and Fitness Center


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