Tom Crawford, Chair of the Geography Department at Virginia Tech, has sent the following message to his colleagues:
“I have great news to share with you related to the distinguished career of our recently retired colleague Bill Carstensen. In honor of Bill’s commitment to the college and his students, Pat and their children Emily, Betsy and Evan have established the Laurence William (Bill) Carstensen International Study Scholarship. Their support recognizes Bill’s commitment to scholarly excellence within the discipline of Geography, his decades of service to Virginia Tech in the spirit of Ut Prosim, and his fervent belief that international travel positively impacts the lives and worldviews of CNRE students. Bill’s leadership of our New Zealand course established it as one of the university’s top programs. This program will be a lasting legacy and help our current and future students to have rich international experiences consistent with Bill’s efforts over many years. The Laurence William (Bill) Carstensen International Study Scholarship cements this tradition for years to come. We are grateful to the Carstensen family for their philanthropic commitment to Virginia Tech in Bill’s honor, and the impact it will have in the lives of our students for many years to come!”
Bill is an esteemed member of the VGA who not only led field experiences but served in many other capacities as well. We applaud this tribute to him.
