Collegiate Times

Correction: This story has been modified from its original version. — Virginia Tech lost to Florida State in the 2000 Sugar Bowl. The Collegiate Times regrets this error.

NFL record-holder Michael Vick led Virginia Tech Football to the Sugar Bowl in 2000 and the Gator Bowl in 2001.

After the events of April 16, Vick and United Way donated $10,000 to victims' families.  

 Vick is also the face of one of the most inhumane scandals in pro sports - the funding and operation of an interstate dogfighting ring.

For all the allegations of "Ron Mexico's" immoral and criminal behavior, there have been many  constructive acts committed by Vick or in his name, now including his work to end the practice of dogfighting.

The Board of Visitors rector John Robert Lawson II seems to think Vick deserves his second chance. After serving out his home confinement, Vick is assured a job at W.M. Jordan, a construction company for which Lawson serves as CEO.

It may be upsetting to some that Tech will further be associated with the controversial football player by having its BOV rector extend his resources.

 But association with Michael Vick is frankly something Tech will not shake anytime soon. His brief, standout college career is still remembered, particularly by locals who remain in Blacksburg. And let's not forget that when the Tech community needed help, Vick gave back.

We should take this as an opprtunity to realize that the NFL has a troubling history with criminal and immoral behavior. Vick is working to atone for his misdeeds. Shouldn't his connections at Tech support him in those efforts?

Our association with football stars is usually a simple perk. But in this case, it comes with a responsibility. Members of the Tech community should respect the good Vick has already done and encourage more good that can come out of his return to society.