Michael Staples

As an Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, Mike provides leadership to a broad team of professionals overseeing housing, dining, and divisional facilities. These programs include one of the top dining operations in the country, with nine dining center locations and nearly 50 dining concepts and Tech-operated franchises. His team also operates and maintains 48 on-campus residence halls with a capacity of 10,522 bed spaces.

Prior to Virginia Tech, Mike served over 29 years as an active-duty Air Force Civil Engineer Officer and attained the rank of Colonel. Throughout his career, and across the globe, he oversaw vast and complex portfolios that included the sustainment of installation infrastructure, community and employee support programs, emergency services and housing operations. His passions include caring for personnel, fostering partnerships, and strategic planning.

Mike grew up on a small island in Maine, and he graduated high school with a class of four people. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the United States Air Force Academy, and a master's degree in engineering and environmental management from the Air Force Institute of Technology. He is also a 30+ year member and leader of the Society of American Military Engineers.

Mike and his wife are avid travelers, they lived abroad for 12 years and have visited over 50 countries. They also enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities and sports, which include SCUBA, hiking, skiing, mountain biking, camping, and golf.