Williams ’88: A Letter from the VMI Alumni Agencies Board Chair and VMI Foundation President

The spring season brought together alumni, cadets, and friends of the Institute for several meaningful events that reflected the enduring strength of the VMI community and the shared commitment to its future. From honoring distinguished volunteer leadership at the spring Foundation Board of Trustees meeting to recognizing the generosity of scholarship benefactors and celebrating the remarkable service of a longtime Alumni Agencies leader, the months of April and May were marked by gratitude, fellowship, and continued dedication to the Institute.

On April 10, 2026, alumni, colleagues, and friends gathered at Outpost 1839 to honor the service and leadership of David Prasnicki (Hon), the retiring VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer. The occasion marked the conclusion of four decades of dedicated service to the Institute and provided an opportunity for the VMI community to express its gratitude for his many contributions.

In recognition of his extraordinary commitment to VMI and the alumni network, he was named an honorary alumnus of the Institute, one of the highest distinctions bestowed upon a non-graduate whose service has significantly advanced the mission and values of VMI. The honor reflected not only his professional accomplishments but also the respect and admiration he earned from alumni, cadets, faculty, staff, and friends of the Institute throughout his tenure.

The evening brought together numerous friends and supporters from across the VMI family, many of whom traveled from throughout the country to attend. Several speakers offered heartfelt tributes highlighting his leadership, dedication, and lasting achievements during his years with the Alumni Agencies. Their remarks reflected both appreciation for his accomplishments and admiration for the relationships he built within the VMI community.

The VMI Foundation Board of Trustees convened April 16–17 for its spring meeting, bringing together trustees, alumni leaders, and Institute representatives to discuss the Foundation’s ongoing efforts in support of cadets and the broader mission of VMI. During the meeting, special recognition was given to two trustees whose years of dedicated service have left a lasting impact on the Institute and the Foundation.

The board formally bid farewell to Meade King ’85 and Kimber Latsha ’77. King concludes decades of service to VMI and the Alumni Agencies and as the Foundation chief operating officer, and Latsha concluded his term of service as a trustee. Both men have devoted countless hours and considerable energy in support of VMI, helping guide the Foundation through periods of growth and continued advancement. Their thoughtful leadership, commitment to stewardship, and unwavering loyalty to the Institute have benefited generations of cadets and alumni alike. Trustees and guests expressed their appreciation for the professionalism, wisdom, and steadfast dedication each brought to the board during their years of service.

Following the board meeting, alumni and benefactors gathered for the annual Foundation Scholarship Banquet, one of the Institute’s most meaningful traditions. The luncheon recognized the generosity and philanthropy of alumni and friends whose financial support helps ensure deserving young men and women are able to receive the benefits of a VMI education.

The banquet provided scholarship recipients with the opportunity to meet and personally thank the donors whose support has made a profound difference in their lives. Throughout the afternoon, cadets shared stories of academic achievement, leadership development, and personal growth made possible through scholarship assistance. Donors, in turn, were reminded of the direct and lasting impact their generosity continues to have on the Corps of Cadets and on the future leaders being shaped at the Institute.

The event also served as a powerful reflection of the enduring spirit of alumni support that has long distinguished VMI. Across generations, alumni continue to answer the call to invest in the success of future cadets, ensuring the opportunities and experiences that shaped their own lives remain available to those who follow.

As the academic year drew to a close and a new class of graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas Sunday, May 17, each of these events served as a reminder of the enduring bonds shared throughout the VMI community. Whether through volunteer leadership, philanthropic support, professional service, or alumni engagement, the collective commitment of alumni and friends continues to strengthen the Institute and its mission for generations to come.

John Williams ’88
VMI Foundation President
VMI Alumni Agencies Board Chairman