Gov. Abigail Spanberger has fired John Rocovich, the rector of Virginia Tech’s Board of Visitors, for violating the board’s code of ethics, according to a letter obtained by Virginia Scope.
John Rocovich first served on the board from 1997 to 2005 and as rector from 2002 to 2004. He served again on the board from 2010 to 2014. Former Gov. Glenn Youngkin appointed Rocovich to another term on the board in 2023.
The board had to change their by laws to allow Rocovich to serve as rector again this year.
House Minority Leader Terry Kilgore, R-Scott, wants answers from the governor on why Rocovich was fired.
“The Governor owes the Virginia Tech community — and all Virginians — an explanation for this decision. What exactly did John Rocovich do?” Kilgore said. “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.”
Spanberger announced in a press release Thursday afternoon that she appointed Ed Baine, who is already on the board and had a term expiring this June, to complete Rocovich’s term, which ends on June 30, 2027.
Baine was previously appointed to the Board of Visitors in 2018 by Gov. Ralph Northam and reappointed in 2022 by Gov. Glenn Youngkin.
Baine works as an executive at Dominion Energy.
To fill the open spot on the board left behind with Rocovich’s departure, Spanberger tapped Sharon Brickhouse Martin — who the governor previously announced would serve a term beginning on July 1, 2026 — to immediately fill Baine’s seat with a term ending on June 30, 2026. Martin will then begin to serve her full term on July 1, 2026.
Spanberger did not address her reasoning for firing Rocvich in the press release.
The board will be tasked with choosing a new rector.
State Sen. Aaron Rouse, D-Virginia Beach, who was a star football player at Virginia Tech, thanked Rocvich for his service in a statement to Virginia Scope and said he looks forward to working with the next rector.
“I look forward to working together to help move Virginia Tech forward and continue advancing its mission of service and excellence.”