The Pallet Alliance Tyson Steffens Memorial Scholarship
We are proud to announce the endowment of the Tyson Steffens Memorial Scholarship at Virginia Tech—a lasting tribute to one of our co-founders, Tyson Steffens. Tyson’s passing was a profound loss for our company, but his passion for the pallet industry, sustainable practices, and mentorship inspire us daily.
This annual scholarship honors Tyson by advancing the packaging industry and nurturing the next generation of leaders. Administered through the College of Natural Resources and Environment, the scholarship supports students majoring in Packaging Systems and Design or Sustainable Biomaterials, fields essential to shaping the future of sustainable packaging and supply chain innovation.
A Scholarship with Purpose
The Tyson Steffens Memorial Scholarship embodies our core values by recognizing students who exhibit both academic excellence and a genuine passion for advancing the pallet and packaging fields. Recipients may continue to receive this scholarship each year, provided they remain actively engaged in research and activities related to these areas. The Virginia Tech Foundation manages the fund, ensuring that Tyson’s legacy continues to empower students for future generations.
Making an Impact
In its inaugural year, the scholarship was awarded to two exceptional students: Sophia Fitzgerald and Marta Ghigo.
- Sophia Fitzgerald, a senior majoring in Packaging Systems and Design with a minor in Psychology, exemplifies leadership and innovation. Her co-op at Merck, participation in the CNRE Leadership Institute, and involvement in organizations like Camp Kesem demonstrate her dedication to the field and her community. Sophia shared, “This scholarship will help me immensely in achieving my future goals while pursuing my passion for learning and gaining opportunities to challenge and better myself. I am extremely grateful for your support—thank you so much!”
Marta Ghigo, a third-year student originally from Rome, Italy, is pursuing her degree in Packaging Systems and Design. Her internship with Unilever’s Dove R&D Packaging Team reflects her commitment to packaginginnovation and sustainability. On campus, Marta serves as secretary of the Packaging Club and is actively involved in career fairs and cultural organizations. Marta expressed, “Receiving this scholarship is a tremendous honor and a great help in my academic journey. Your support will significantly ease the financial burden of my studies and allow me to focus more on my coursework and hands-on experiences.”
Marta Ghigo, a third-year student originally from Rome, Italy, is pursuing her degree in Packaging Systems and Design. Her internship with Unilever’s Dove R&D Packaging Team reflects her commitment to packaginginnovation and sustainability. On campus, Marta serves as secretary of the Packaging Club and is actively involved in career fairs and cultural organizations. Marta expressed, “Receiving this scholarship is a tremendous honor and a great help in my academic journey. Your support will significantly ease the financial burden of my studies and allow me to focus more on my coursework and hands-on experiences.”
Continuing Tyson’s Vision
Through this scholarship, The Pallet Alliance honors Tyson Steffens’ vision of empowering future leaders in sustainable packaging. Tyson’s legacy lives on by supporting talented students like Sophia and Marta through their achievements and the positive impact they will bring to the industry.
We are proud to partner with Virginia Tech to make this scholarship a reality, and we look forward to seeing the lasting contributions it will inspire in the packaging industry for years to come.
About the Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design
The Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design at Virginia Tech is a global leader in research and education dedicated to advancing packaging design, unit load optimization, and sustainable materials. The center equips students with cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges in packaging systems, supply chains, and sustainability. The center fosters innovation and collaboration through partnerships with industry leaders, shaping the next generation of professionals to drive meaningful impact in the field.
