as academic performance, recruiting efforts, cadet retention, discipline, room and uniform inspections, and drill performance. The cadets of the winning company are given a gold cord, which may be worn with dress uniforms and is the sake of its nickname. The company itself is granted a plaque and a gold steamer to be hung atop the company's guidon. The Gold Cord is the most anticipated and highly competitive award offered by the Corps, as it is the ultimate representation of all-around unit excellence within the Corps of Cadets. Ribbons and cords Ribbons and cords are given to cadets for a variety of achievements. This typically includes academic excellence, leadership performance, and membership in Corps organizations. Many of these awards overlap and have both a ribbon and cord associated with them. Ribbons and wreath devices are distributed to cadets based on one's individual grade point average (GPA). It is often the first ribbon that a first-year cadet may wear on their uniforms. Gold Level: 3.75 - 4.0 Orange Level: 3.4 - 3.74 Maroon Level: 3.0 - 3.39 Controversy In the fall of 2019, upperclassmen of Bravo Company organized an unsanctioned, "sophomore integration," in which cadets engaged in strenuous physical exercise and were subjected to blood pinning. No charges were filed in connection to the incident on the basis that it did not fulfill the legal definition of hazing. In 2020, cadet Darrien Brown was suspended for his role in the incident and subsequently filed suit over a lack of due process. See also Virginia Tech Highty Tighties Senior Military College Skipper Cannon References External links Official VTCC Home Page Virginia Tech Naval ROTC Virginia Tech Air Force ROTC Virginia Tech Army ROTC Video: History of Skipper cannon Virginia Tech ROTC programs in the United States