Alpha Chi Omega’s Michaela Long magnifies healthy love through Homecoming campaign
BLACKSBURG, Va. — Alpha Chi Omega member and 2025 Homecoming Royalty Michaela Long led a months-long, student-driven campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence and promote healthy relationships across Virginia Tech’s fraternity and sorority life community.
Long began the process in March with weekly Student Alumni Association meetings on rules, deadlines, and expectations. Over the summer, she designed and ordered T-shirts, stickers, and pins, planned a social media calendar, and partnered with the Virginia Tech Women’s Center as her department's ally.
Returning in the fall, she worked with her sponsoring chapter, Alpha Chi Omega, to finalize materials, photograph campaign assets, and present her platform at club meetings and campus events. During Homecoming week in October, Long tabled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., continued daily social outreach, appeared at kickoff events, and connected with students to share resources. Her AXO sisters assisted with booths and the parade, while family and friends supported logistics such as signage and parade materials. The campaign raised more than $1,300 for the Women’s Center to help keep student resources free year-round.
Long’s initiative, “Magnifying Healthy Love with Michaela,” centered on boundaries, respect, consent, and how to access help.
“This cause is deeply personal to me,” Long said. “I have seen how domestic violence can impact lives across generations, and I want students to feel empowered to speak up, seek help, and support survivors. By breaking the silence, we can create a safer, more compassionate campus for everyone.”
Long said her favorite moments were watching candidates champion platforms that embodied Ut Prosim and experiencing the parade’s community support. She emphasized the role of fraternity and sorority life in amplifying the message through reposts, event help, and peer advocacy.
Students seeking support, confidential guidance, or information about healthy relationships can contact the Virginia Tech Women’s Center, 206 Washington St SW, Blacksburg, VA 24060. For resources, advocacy, and referrals, call (540) 231-7806 or visit during business hours.
