The First African American Admitted To Virginia Tech Passes Away At 88

Irving L. Peddrew III, the first African American admitted to Virginia Tech, has passed away at the age of 88.

Breaking Barriers in Education

In 1954, Irving Peddrew made history as the first Black student admitted to Virginia Tech, a historically white, four-year public institution in the former states of the Confederacy. 

Despite the milestone, Peddrew faced a level of adversity, including being forced to live and eat off campus due to segregation. 

He found a home with a Black couple, Janie and William Hoge, who supported him during his university journey.

During his freshman year, Peddrew was the only African American among 3,322 students. 

According to Virginia Tech, in previous interviews, Peddrew recalled Virginia Tech administrators telling him, “Because of my performance and the way I carried myself during my first year, my freshman year, they were convinced that it didn’t necessarily have to be a a problem accepting more Black students.”

Honoring Irving L. Peddrew III’s Legacy

Although Peddrew chose to withdraw from the university before the start of his senior year, his influence remained significant.

The university named Peddrew-Yates Hall after him and Charlie L. Yates, the first Black graduate from Virginia Tech. 

Additionally, Peddrew was awarded an honorary degree in 2016, making him the ninth recipient of such an honor from the institution. 

Virginia Tech President Tech Tim Sands conferred the bachelor’s of electrical engineering to Peddrew during the University’s Commencement that year.

“Mr. Peddrew endured unfair and oppressive treatment with dignity and strength, hoping to make a difference for those who would follow him – and he said,” said Sands.

“It was an honor to know him and present him with the Virginia Tech degree he earned. He will be remembered as a leader among those who laid the foundation for our growth as a diverse and inclusive institution.”

Read: Engineer Who Was Georgia Tech’s First Black Grad Presents Granddaughter With Engineering Degree

A Lifelong Commitment to Progress

Following his time at Virginia Tech, Peddrew continued his education at the University of Southern California and later embarked on a career in business in San Francisco. 

He eventually returned to Virginia, where he worked at Newport News Shipbuilding and Hampton University, retiring in 1994.

“It takes a special person to be a pioneer,” said Ed Baine, rector of the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors and a member of the class of 1995.

“I’m grateful to Irving Peddrew who opened the door for thousands of Black students who followed at Virginia Tech. As a student, he chose to leave after three years, but he came back to Virginia Tech, time-after-time, later in life, to help connect our community. He was a dear member of the Hokie family, and we extend our condolences to his family. We will all miss him.”