The University of Virginia Tech boasts a distinguished and accomplished global alumni network across professional sports, broadcasting, entertainment, and public service. Famous former students include legendary Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive end Bruce Smith, Super Bowl champion cornerback Ronde Barber, pioneering dual-threat NFL quarterback Michael Vick, legendary football coach Frank Beamer, acclaimed television journalist Hoda Kotb, and NASA engineer and author Homer Hickam, all of whom achieved international renown.