Meet the Team

Get To Know Us

Here at The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center, our number one priority is to meet your needs and ensure that your meeting or event is one that is unmatched. Please let one of us know how we may assist you with your next meeting or event. To contact our Sales Department, please call 540-231-8000 or click here to email us.

The committed individuals that make up our team consistently go above and beyond to ensure that each guest has a wonderful experience in Blacksburg, Virginia.

Teresa Hughes, Director of Sales

A 30-year veteran of the hospitality industry, Teresa Hughes possesses creative vision, a keen eye for detail and is a tried and proven leader. She has been with The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center since its opening in 2005.  In her current role as Director of Sales, Teresa leads all sales and marketing initiatives for the Hotel and the Conference Center.  Previously she was with Hilton Hotels for three years, Virginia Tech's Donaldson Brown Hotel and Conference Center, and with Kingston Plantation Resort in Myrtle Beach, SC.   Teresa has been involved with many industry organizations throughout her career.

Laurie Bond, Senior Sales Manager

Laurie’s 27 year career in the hospitality industry has led her to the position of Senior Sales Manager with The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center.  She quickly establishes a good working rapport with her clients and consistently goes the extra mile to extend hospitality to each of them.  Her previous experience includes corporate and university sales with Hilton, and Sales & Catering with Marriott.  Laurie holds a BS in Management, Housing and Family Development and a MA in Education with emphasis in Training and Development from Virginia Tech.  Laurie used to lift weights as a hobby and almost competed in a body building competition.

Melissa Georges, Senior Sales Manager

A previous senior sales manager for The Founders Inn and Spa of Virginia Beach, Melissa began with Benchmark Hospitality working in sales for the company’s Cheyenne Mountain Resort of Colorado Springs.  During her tenure with Benchmark Hospitality International, Ms. Georges previously achieved Benchmark’s Platinum Club for sales success, and was the recipient of Benchmark’s Award of Excellence. Georges earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Consumer Studies and Business from Virginia Polytechnic and State University.  She has relocated to the Blacksburg area.

Courtney Powell, Director of Catering

Courtney has over 25 years of catering and event planning experience, and thrives on being able to help someone take all of their ideas and help shape them in to the best event ever. She is a member of the NRV Weddings and Special Event Professionals. Courtney is extremely patient, detail-oriented, and prompt with her brides and other industry professionals.  Courtney is a graduate of Virginia Tech with a BA Degree in Liberal Arts, and worked previously for Marriott, Corporate Club of America, and Hilton.  Courtney enjoys watching Iron Chef America in her spare time.