Pylon Society Spotlight: Sarah Preston
Sarah Preston found a home at Virginia Tech, where opportunity and connection shaped her future. She believes in the power of small actions and exemplifies Hokie Spirit through mentorship, alumni involvement, and community service. Now, she is committed to holding the door open for the next generation, just as Hokies did for her.
Sarah Preston (middle) with friends and family at graduation. Photo courtesy of Sarah Preston.
Editor’s Note: Virginia Tech’s Pylon Society recognizes dedicated Hokies who consistently give back to the university through monthly or annual recurring giving. We're sharing the stories of Pylon Society members in this spotlight series.
Sarah Preston is many things – a business professional, an avid runner, a rescue-certified scuba diver, a proud cat mom, and a Hokie.
A graduate of the Pamplin College of Business, Preston dedicates herself to giving back to the university that shaped her future. Whether she is mentoring students, speaking on alumni panels, or supporting programs that provide opportunities for students, she consistently pays it forward.
“From day one, my parents taught me the importance of giving back,” she said. “It isn’t just about the big gestures. It’s the everyday acts of kindness, the things that nourish and fulfill you.”
Preston’s passion for service is deeply rooted in her upbringing. As the daughter of two military parents, she grew up with a strong sense of duty and gratitude.
That mindset made Virginia Tech a natural fit for her. From Preston’s first moments on campus, she knew she was in the right place. That she had found her home away from home.
“Everyone held the door open for me – literally” she said. “People smiled, said hello. My dad thought they were paid actors, but no. That’s just Hokie Spirit.”
The sense of belonging she felt at Virginia Tech shaped her experience, and future. She thrived in Pamplin, especially in Brian Collins’ sales program, where she found mentorship and lessons that extended beyond the classroom.
“Professor Collins didn’t just teach us how to sell a product. He taught us how to sell ourselves,” Preston said. “How to stand out in interviews, how to gain confidence, and how to navigate the workforce. It was life-changing.”
Her experience, coupled with the university’s unwavering sense of community, makes her want to give back.
Today, Preston is actively involved with Virginia Tech’s community in many ways. She volunteers with Virginia Distributive Education Clubs of America, a not-for-profit organization, mentoring students in marketing. She also attends events and serves on alumni panels, and is an active participant in the Richmond Chapter of Virginia Tech’s Young Alumni Association.
“I want students to see what’s possible,” she said. “Virginia Tech opened doors for me, both literally and figuratively. Now, I want to open doors for them.”
Preston believes serving others isn’t just something you do. It’s a way of life, something ingrained in the Hokie Spirit.
“Small actions can make a big impact,” she said. “That’s what Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) means to me. Finding ways to serve in everyday life.”
Whether she’s running a half marathon, travelling internationally, or supporting the next generation of Hokies, Preston carries Hokie Spirit with her – and plans to keep opening doors for others.
“Virginia Tech shaped who I am,” she said. “It’s how I found my path, and now I want to help others find theirs.”
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Sarah Preston's cats in Virginia Tech bandanas. Photo courtesy of Sarah Preston.
