RADFORD -- Virginia Governor Timothy M. Kaine came to Radford University on Friday to learn about RU's efforts and accomplishments related to the 7-17 Strategic Plan and to tour the campus. Greeted by a standing room only crowd in the Martin Hall Board Room, Governor Kaine was welcomed to the campus by the Rector of RU's Board of Visitors, R.J. Kirk. The Rector noted Governor Kaine's strong commitment to higher education in the Commonwealth and thanked him for his continuing interest in the success of Radford University.

Following the Rector's greetings, RU men's basketball coach Brad Greenberg presented the Governor with a Highlanders' baseball cap, shirt and a very special season ticket good for all Highlander games. Coach Greenberg also introduced the Governor to three members of the men's basketball team.

Governor Kaine spoke briefly about his belief in the necessity of strong higher education options for the citizens of the Commonwealth. He complimented RU President Penelope W. Kyle on the progress Radford has made and for the vision and strong effort of the university's senior administration. President Kyle briefed the Governor on RU's campus master plan, noting that $211 million dollars in both state and university money is being utilized for new construction and building improvements to provide expanded services and opportunities to RU students and faculty. President Kyle also reviewed with the Governor the university's plans for expanded graduate education, an enhanced emergency preparedness function for the campus and RU's efforts in sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Immediately following the conclusion of the briefing, Governor Kaine, President Kyle and a number of state and university officials toured the Radford campus by golf cart, with stops at potential sites for future buildings, current construction and buildings being renovated. Governor Kaine concluded his visit to the New River Valley that evening by throwing out the first pitch at the baseball game between the Pulaski Mariners and the Burlington Royals.

In the photos (clockwise from top left:) Governor Tim Kaine addresses Radford University administrators, faculty and students in the Martin Hall Board Room Friday; RU basketball coach Brad Greenberg and members of the Highlanders' basketball team present the Governor with gifts and a season ticket pass as Board Rector R.J. Kirk (center) and President Penelope Kyle look on; Governor Kaine, President Kyle and others during the tour of campus; the Governor gets a mobile tour of the RU campus.