Georgia Tech's First Lady, Valerie H. Peterson
An active member of the community, Valerie H. Peterson represents the University as first lady at social and academic functions and development events.
Val Peterson is a former Spanish teacher and has a passion for education. She has served as an active fundraiser and chapter president for the Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) Foundation, a national organization that provides scholarships to students working toward degrees in science, medicine, and engineering.
In addition to raising their four adult children, the Petersons served as foster parents to nine children, and are committed to helping children. During her time at the University of Colorado, she partnered with local social services to establish the Guardian Scholars Program, a scholarship for students who have aged out of the foster care system. She is active in sustainability efforts on the Georgia Tech campus and in the Atlanta community, and is involved with the Sustainable Atlanta Roundtable. For the Partners' Program of the AAU, the Association of American Universities, she is a member of the Program Committee.
In May 2012, she and President Peterson celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary.
Newly minted southerners Val and Bud Peterson learn about the importance of the peach business to Middle Georgia's economy during a trip to a Fort Valley peach orchard. The visit was part of their July 2010 annual state tour.
August 25, 2011 — Fishing trip with John and Karen Huff, and Fred Hoppe in Venice, Louisiana (click on an image above to view a larger version.)
Val giving a talk to the living and learning community.
