Deborah A. Koller

Deborah A. Koller, of Chesterfield, Virginia, earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Virginia Tech in 1976, and then went on to earn a master’s degree in microbiology and doctorate in molecular genetics, both from Virginia Commonwealth University. She retired as senior principal scientist at Altria Client Services, after 32 years of dedicated service to the company.

An enthusiastic Hokie, Koller has led by example through her service and philanthropy. She is active on the College of Science Dean’s Roundtable Advisory Board and the Department of Biological Sciences Advisory Board, where she has served as the chair. Previously, Koller served on the Richmond Regional Committee for the Campaign for Virginia Tech, the Women in Leadership and Philanthropy Executive Committee, and the Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science (ICTAS) TaskForce.

A member of Virginia Tech’s Ut Prosim Society and Legacy Soci-ety, she endowed a scholarship that is awarded annually to a biological sciences student who demonstrates high academic and personal achievement, as well as strong character and a love of learning. In addition, Koller established the Paul and Laverne Ayers Excellence Fund in the College of Science, along with her sisters, in honor of their parents. The fund provides critical support for the training of future educators in the science, technology, engineering, and math fields.

Koller has been involved with a number of civic and philanthropic organizations, including the Chesterfield County Christmas Mother Committee. A master gardener, she serves as coordinator and a faculty member for Landscape for Life, a sustainable landscape initiative workshop sponsored by the Chesterfield County (Virginia) Extension office.