The Virginia Tech School of Plant and Environmental Sciences hosted the 2025 Horticulture Industry Dinner on Nov. 13 in Owens Ballroom, bringing together 78 students, alumni, and leading employers for an evening focused on connection, career exploration, and community.

Twenty businesses from across the landscape and horticulture sectors attended the event, including 40 Virginia Tech alumni who returned to campus to meet future interns and employees. Company representatives spoke with students about career paths, industry needs, and the ways their academic training can translate into professional roles.

Throughout the evening, students networked with employers, learned about internship and job opportunities, and gained insight into how their skills in plant science, design, environmental stewardship, and business management fit into the broader industry.

A highlight of the program was the student scholarship raffle, supported by industry partners. A total of $4,000 in scholarships was awarded to 10 students: Pat Riley, Bailey Hamilton, Rayah Edeleson, Kamryn Cook, Mia Serspinski, Isabel Laws, Spencer Strayer, Logan Moon, CJ Rufe and Anthony Liberatore.

Rayah Edeleson

The annual dinner continues to serve as a meaningful bridge between students and the horticulture profession, reinforcing Virginia Tech’s commitment to experiential learning, industry engagement, and preparing graduates to make a positive impact in their fields. Companies that participated in the 2025 Horticulture Industry Dinner include: