College of Architecture and Urban Studies hosts diversity photo competition

BLACKSBURG, Va., Feb. 6, 2009 – The College of Architecture and Urban Studies at Virginia Tech is hosting a photography contest for students in the college.

College of Architecture and Urban Studies students are invited to submit up to three still images that capture the spirit of diversity at Virginia Tech. Submissions are accepted on Facebook only between Friday, Feb. 6 at midnight and Tuesday, March 31, at 5 p.m. Winners will be announced on Friday, April 17.

The competition is an initiative of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies Diversity Committee to celebrate the diversity and inclusive excellence at Virginia Tech. The competition aims to further Virginia Tech’s mission regarding diversity in terms of race and ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, communities with special needs in society, and communities with historically restricted economic means.

Contestants are urged to explore the manifestations of diversity in life at Virginia Tech and how it enhances the university experience. The committee encourages images that go beyond just a snapshot and photos that are worked on in groups. Three students or student teams will win cash prizes of $500, $300, and $200.

Alejandro J. Medina, an architecture graduate student from Stafford County, Va., and College of Architecture and Urban Studies Diversity Committee member, has served as the primary student organizer to the competition, alongside a diverse sub-committee of faculty and staff. The competition is sponsored by the university’s Office for Equity and Inclusion, the Office of College of Architecture and Urban Studies Dean, and the College of Architecture and Urban Studies Diversity Committee.

College of Architecture and Urban Studies students who wish to participate should first become a fan of the Facebook page and then follow the submission directions on the Facebook page.

All submissions will become part of an exhibition that will be presented in multiple venues this spring.