LEXINGTON, Va. Dec. 16, 2025 — Life as a Virginia Military Institute cadet is significantly different from the average college student. The demands placed on cadets are much more than academics. There is intense physical activity, ROTC instruction, and rigorous training in the regimental system. To help ease the stress and tension of end of semester exams for cadets, several special events were held.

On reading day, the day between classes ending and exams beginning, the Center for Cadet Counseling hosted Stress Busters in Cocke Hall, where cadets were able to take a break from studying and recharge with games, snacks, and dogs to pet from TheraPets of the Roanoke Valley, Inc. Tony Hernandez, a retired New York state police officer, is owner and handler of Trooper, a Great Dane and registered therapy dog. Hernandez said Trooper loves coming to VMI.

“The cadets love seeing him, and he loves being around everybody and getting all the attention.” Hernandez and Trooper travel all over the nation visiting hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and charity events. This year alone, they have made over 200 visits. “We do it as volunteers. We do not accept money in any way. We do this to help people,” shared Hernandez.

Gabriel Booze ’29, a rat from Covington, Virginia, has a Great Dane at home and found interacting with Trooper at Stress Busters comforting. “I grew up with big dogs, so it’s nice to be able to be around another big dog,” he confided.    

Tricia Fry, director of cadet counseling, knows the end of the semester can cause anxiety.

“Too often cadets put aside taking care of themselves to press through studying for exams. Stress Busters offers a chance for cadets to hit pause, have some fun, relax, laugh with friends, and head back to studying with a clear mind,” she said.

That evening, the S7 staff — cadets in charge of morale, welfare, and recreation—provided cookies, cocoa, and ornament-making in the post exchange for cadets needing a break from studying. Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and even the Grinch was there to lighten spirits.

Reminiscent of old-fashioned caroling, Lt. Col. Matthew Halligan, music director, and a small group of band members, strolled around post, playing Christmas music on the doorsteps of officer quarters.  

On Monday and Tuesday during exam week, the Chaplain’s office held their annual candy toss in which they toss down candy from the balcony of Old Hospital to passing cadets. Mary Cannon, office administrator, loves watching the candy toss.

“The chaplains, as well as the cadet chaplains don Santa hats and shower the cadets below with plenty of Christmas cheer in the form of chocolate and other candies! Cadets dive for the candy, use their covers to catch it, and have a grand old time. It brings smiles and laughter during a stressful time of year!”     

Marianne Hause
Communications & Marketing
VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE