A Surprise Gift from VASEM with Historical Ties
Today I received a gift that relates to Southern American history and culture.
Engraved on the cup was this: Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine (VASEM), COVES 2022 on the other side.

Of course, I am one of the Commonwealth of Virginia Engineering & Science (COVES) Policy Fellows for year 2022!
But why a cup? Of this rather peculiar shape?