Look at Donnell Wright. His bio says he’s from Chicago and his territories include Illinois. Agree-don’t ask any questions that are easily found on the website. wright3@vt.edu
Confirm that yourself before contacting anyone.
And don’t apply ED if you need to compare financial packages. VT is not known for providing big merit awards. Good luck . VT is a great school and there are many other great schools out there if Virginia Tech does not work out for you.