Around the Ag Quad

Longtime Extension agent to coach Livestock Judging Team

Matthew Miller, an alumnus and longtime Extension agent, has returned to Virginia Tech as the new coach of the Livestock Judging Team. With nearly 25 years of experience in Virginia Cooperative Extension, Miller brings a wealth of knowledge in competitive livestock judging. He plans to form a team of 7-10 students to compete nationwide, emphasizing the importance of agriculture, public speaking, decision-making, and building relationships. Miller's commitment to student success and his competitive spirit aim to elevate the team's performance and impact. Read more.

Former first-generation college student embraces new role as Virginia's assistant secretary of education

Zach Jacobs, a Virginia Tech alumnus and former first-generation college student, now serves as Virginia's Assistant Secretary of Education. His role involves collaborating with the General Assembly, university presidents, and higher education liaisons to enhance Virginia's educational system. Jacobs' journey from a first-generation college student, actively involved in FFA and working various jobs to fund his education, to a key educational policy maker, exemplifies dedication and the impact of mentorship and hard work. His efforts aim to ensure Virginia's education system remains top-notch for future generations. Read more.

Stefan Roberts named head of the Department of Biochemistry

Stefan Roberts has been appointed as the head of the Department of Biochemistry at Virginia Tech. Bringing significant expertise from his previous role at the University of Bristol, England, Roberts is set to focus on enhancing research and teaching within the department. His research has contributed to understanding gene expression regulation in cancer and normal cells, including discovering a core promoter element. With an impressive record of research funding and publications, Roberts is dedicated to expanding the department's strong contributions to biochemistry. Read more.

Alliance for Climate-Smart Agriculture recruits candidates

The Alliance for Climate-Smart Agriculture began recruiting farmers and ranchers into the program in February.  Led by Virginia Tech's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the pilot aims to encourage producers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the livelihoods of farmers. Enrolled producers will receive $100 per acre or animal unit.

If you want to know more about this program, including when the second phase of enrollment opens in Virginia, you can visit www.allianceforcsa.org or follow @allianceforcsa on social media channels.

Students use study abroad trip to focus on food security in South Africa

Ozzie Abaye, a professor in the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, led a group of 14 students during winter break to complete programs focused on urban agriculture, food security, and sustainable farming in and around Cape Town. Clara Betts, a member of the university’s soil judging team, is pictured in the school’s garden which provides fruit and vegetables for student lunches. Read more.

New director of communications and marketing

Tom Soladay was appointed as the director of communications and marketing for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, effective Feb. 1, 2024. In his new role, Soladay will lead strategic communications and marketing efforts to boost the college's visibility and support its research, teaching, and outreach missions. Bringing experience from global brand representation, including roles with Chip Ganassi Racing and Circuit Sport, he aims to enhance the college's reputation through effective storytelling and marketing strategies​​. Read more.