Governor fires Virginia Tech Rector John Rocovich for conduct violation

The Board of Visitors at Virginia Tech tweaked bylaws last month to elect John Rocovich to a third term as University Rector.

Rocovich, an appointee of Governor Glenn Youngkin, was relieved of his duties by Governor Abigail Spanberger, citing a code of conduct violation of state and school regulations.

The move comes as Tech begins the search process to replace President Tim Sands who announced his retirement last week.

House Minority Leader Terry Kilgore says Spanberger owes Tech alumni, school leaders and the Commonwealth an explanation for Rocovich’s firing and the alleged violation.

“I’ve known John for years, and I know he has done nothing but act in the best interest of Virginia Tech. To suggest otherwise is libelous,” Kilgore said in a statement Thursday.