Love, learning, and leadership: Virginia Tech program connects couple

By Olivia Moyer

For many students, graduate school is about advancing careers, expanding knowledge, and building professional networks. For Mikel and Steven Manchester of Virginia Tech’s Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, it also became the place where they found each other.

Their story began not with a grand introduction, but with group assignments.

The two first met as graduate students in the department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, where they were repeatedly placed together in group work across multiple courses. What started as a routine collaboration of exchanging phone numbers, coordinating assignments, and managing deadlines gradually grew into something more meaningful.

“We were put into three separate online classes together, and with every class we were put into the same work group,” Steven said.

At first, their connection was purely academic. But mutual respect quickly formed as they navigated graduate school as adult learners, balancing work, life responsibilities, and education.

“I recognized Mikel’s brilliance, her work ethic,” Steven said. “Working with someone juggling family, a full-time job, and school — that impressed me the most.”

That respect was mutual. Early on, much of what they knew about each other came from small profile photos and written communication.

“All you saw was a thumbnail picture,” Mikel said. “We had no idea what the other person was really like.”

A first meeting that changed everything

After months of working together virtually, they decided to meet in person. The plan was simple: a neutral meeting at an oyster restaurant in Virginia’s Northern Neck region. The reality was more complicated.

The weather forced the original chosen restaurant to close early. The replacement location didn’t feel right. After several last-minute changes, they finally met.

Despite the challenges, both remember the moment clearly.

“The minute I saw him, it just changed my world,” Mikel said.

Their first official date came later at the Virginia State Fair — a fitting setting for two people whose careers and passions center on agriculture. That shared appreciation for agriculture and community would become a defining part of their relationship.

Building careers and a life together 

Today, both continue to serve Virginia Tech and the broader agricultural community. Mikel serves as an Extension specialist focused on water quality and community development while continuing graduate work and outreach initiatives. Steven works full-time in federal service and teaches as an adjunct instructor in international agriculture and diplomacy.

Both say Virginia Tech played a defining role in their journey. “Virginia Tech is undoubtedly what brought us together,” they agreed.

Their relationship has also been shaped by shared values around service and community engagement. Both grew up with strong ties to agriculture, whether through international policy connections or community-based food systems and gardening traditions.

Like many couples balancing careers and family responsibilities, they have navigated long commutes, career transitions, and health challenges. Throughout it all, communication has been key.

“We talk about everything and talk about nothing,” Mikel said. “That constant communication keeps us grounded.”

Steven emphasized the importance of mutual support. “When your spouse is your best friend, it’s easy,” he said.

Years into their relationship, he said the connection still feels immediate and natural.

“We were very sure,” he said. “We knew this was it.”

Redefining romance

The couple prioritizes meaningful, personal gestures throughout the year rather than focusing only on traditional holidays like Valentine’s Day.

One memory involves a handwritten love letter from Steven to Mikel styled after late 19th-century correspondence, complete with historically accurate stationery and postage — reflecting her interest in the era.

“Finding something someone really cares about and making it special — that’s what matters,” Mikel said.

They also exchange handwritten letters on anniversaries.

“It’s a letter of thanks,” Steven said. “A letter acknowledging how lucky we are.”

Advice for Hokies

For those looking to make meaningful connections in college, the couple offered simple advice. 

“Be available to make connections,” Mikel said. “In a world dominated by digital communication, be present, approachable, and open to conversation.”

“Be open, be genuine, and communicate,” Steven said.

They also emphasize generosity in relationships.

“My father always said, be the person who tries to give 51 percent in your relationship,” Steven added.

More than an education

For the Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, stories like this highlight the broader impact of higher education. Secondary education creates not only career pathways but also lifelong connections.

Looking back, the couple said their story reflects something simple but meaningful.

“With Virginia Tech, we were able to earn an education and fall in love at the same time,” Steven said.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, their story serves as a reminder that meaningful relationships can begin in unexpected places — even a group project.