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The environmental dilemma of artificial intelligence

By: Evan Hull, Alana Powell, and Gracie Gosier – environment, climate, and sustainability reporters

As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and daily life, its environmental impact is becoming a growing concern. While AI technologies can offer us tools for combating climate change, developing these models contributes significantly to increasing CO2 emissions.

Benjamin Jantzen, associate professor of computer science at Virginia Tech, discusses what goes into developing AI models and its impact on climate change.

Federal hiring freezes and funding cuts leave college graduates with uncertainty

By: Kyndall Hanson, Elizabeth Hill, and Janae Neely, education reporters

Throughout 2025, federal hiring freezes and funding cuts implemented by the Trump administration have created uncertainty for graduating college seniors. As students navigate post-graduate plans, they are often left to choose between entering the workforce or pursuing higher education, both of which present challenges. Kate Renz, assistant director of employer relations and career services in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, discusses the potential impacts on graduating seniors and offers advice on navigating the job market.

Helping the River Love

By Evan Hull, environment, climate, and sustainability reporter

Paul Moody, founder and owner of New River’s Edge in Pembroke, and founding member of ReNew the New, has made it his mission to put locals and visitors in touch with a litter-free New River.

A political digest of Trump’s first 100 days

Julia Lagano, Wilbert Ramirez Garcia, Nyles Stone – Politics

Since President Trump’s return to office, a lot has happened affecting the U.S. both national and internationally. With trade wars on the rise and the administration at odds with higher education and D.E.I., this digest analyzes Trump’s first 100 days in office.

Differences in diet around the world

By Elizabeth Ann Miller, Evvy Fite and Madi Poole, health & wellness reporters.

Recently, on The Newsfeed podcast, we discussed the differences in diet within the U.S compared to other countries around the world. From the ingredients used in the food to the outside of food factors that we see worldwide, and the effects this may have on people and their daily lives. The group speaks on personal experience in and out of the country and knowledge learned from a Virginia Tech professor, Sean O’Keefe, from Canada.

Diving into AI: Manipulation, Youth Influence, and the Future of Human Connection

By Sophia Gerni, Bethany Lenhardt, Bianca Campoverde, crime, safety, and justice reporters

In the 21st century, technology has advanced faster than ever before with the advent of the internet. Recently, AI has bared its teeth with unprecedented safety concerns, including with minors.

Health Implications Of The Red Dye Ban

By Evvy Fite, Elizabeth Ann Miller and Madi Poole, health & wellness reporters.

Recently in the United States there has been a movement to ban artificial food colorings, in particular Red 40. Following the January 2025 ban on Red Dye No. 3 from food and ingested drugs, people have been speculating on whether more food dye bans are on the horizon. Sean O’Keefe, a Virginia Tech professor in the Food Science & Technology department, shared his thoughts on the bans and the health implications of food coloring.

Dismantling of the Department of Education brings uncertainty for rural schools

By: Kyndall Hanson, Elizabeth Hill, & Janae Neely – education reporters

Many rural school districts utilize federal funding to support initiatives and resources to support underserved and low-income student populations. Recent federal actions have called for the closure of the Department of Education, reducing the staffing of the department and its role in supporting public education on the national level. Charles Lowery, associate professor of educational leadership in the School of Education at Virginia Tech, discusses the potential impact of the closure on local schools, students, and educators.

Local company manufactures eco-friendly biochar

By Evan Hull, Alana Powell, and Gracie Gosier – environment, climate, and sustainability reporters

In Floyd, a growing company continues to innovate specially produced charcoal with extensive environmental benefits. SWVA BioChar manufactures carbon chips and powders with a variety of applications.

General manager, Jeff Wade, discussed the company’s products, goals and environmental mission with the News Feed.

Early intervention in Childhood Behavior Key to Preventing Bullying and Tragedy

By Sophia Gerni, Bianca Campoverde and Bethany Lenhardt, crime, safety and justice reporters

The tragic loss of Autumn Bushman, a 10-year-old girl from Roanoke, VA, who died by suicide due to bullying, is a reminder of the urgent need for early intervention and consistent support systems for young children. Addressing behavioral and development needs early promotes empathy, resilience and long-term success. A proactive approach by caregivers and educators can significantly reduce future social and emotional challenges.