Max Esterhuizen named College of Natural Resources and Environment director of communications and marketing

Max Esterhuizen ’12 has been named the director of communications and marketing for Virginia Tech’s College of Natural Resources and Environment, effective Sept. 10.

In this role, Esterhuizen will lead the planning and execution of a comprehensive strategic communications and marketing plan for the college that aligns with and advances universitywide strategic goals and initiatives.

Two immediate priorities will be developing an innovative approach to highlight the research and creative scholarship activities that are a cornerstone of Virginia Tech Global Distinction as well as the transformational hands-on student learning experiences in the college that help comprise Virginia Tech Advantage.

As a member of the college’s advancement team, Esterhuizen will be responsible for increasing the visibility and enhancing the reputation of Virginia Tech along with promoting the college’s teaching, research, and outreach activities.

"Max brings a track record of success and impact in communications and marketing," said Paul Winistorfer, dean of the college. "Enhancing and elevating the good work of our faculty, students, alumni and partners is critical to all facets of our mission and to our success. Natural resources and the environment are the foundation of a sustainable human ecosystem and we have one of the very best efforts in the nation in this college. We are excited to continue our momentum and Max will lead us in telling our story."

Esterhuizen joined Virginia Tech in March 2020 as the assistant director of communications and marketing for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, where he helped enhance the college’s media presence, including helping land placements in outlets ranging from NPR’s "Science Friday" to Rolling Stone, assisted the rollout Virginia Cooperative Extension’s new brand, was the editor of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Magazine, and continually crafted news stories, media pitches, and other digital content designed to elevate hands-on learning and faculty research and student scholarship in the college. He also served as the interim director of communications and marketing for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences from February 2023 through February 2024.

Prior to joining Virginia Tech, Esterhuizen worked in Radford University’s University Relations. He earned his bachelor's degree in English from Virginia Tech and received his master's degree in corporate and professional communication from Radford University.