On October 20, Menchville High School in Newport News, VA, celebrated a major milestone with the ribbon cutting for its new courtyard project—a vibrant, flexible space designed to bring students and the community together. The project simplifies and connects existing areas, creates multi-use spaces for gathering and performances, and incorporates sustainable features like native landscaping and water management education.
For Peyton Ackerman, a former intern and now a full-time employee at VHB, this event was especially meaningful. It was her first ribbon-cutting ceremony and the completion of the first project she contributed to as an intern.
VHB: Thinking back to your internship, what was it like to be part of the Menchville High School courtyard project, and what made it a memorable experience for you?
Peyton: Reflecting on my internship at VHB, being part of the Menchville High School courtyard project was an incredible journey as I began in my career. It was my first professional experience, and I felt valued and trusted by the project team from day one. I had the opportunity to make real-life decisions on the courtyard’s design, despite being an intern, and that was a huge takeaway for me from this experience. The mentorship I received from so many talented landscape architects across our RVA | Hampton Roads offices, was invaluable, teaching me about design collaboration and making me feel like a valued member of the company.
VHB: How did working on a real project as an intern help you see your future career in a new way?
Peyton: Working on a real project as an intern gave me the space to take all the concepts I learned in the classroom and bring them to life in the community. For instance, I had the chance to influence the actual shape of the courtyard and felt like I had a voice in impacting choices throughout the entire project. The trust and mentorship I received were instrumental in shaping my professional outlook, and I aspire to reflect these values in my future career by mentoring junior landscape architects the same way.
VHB: What goes through your mind now, seeing something you helped with as an intern officially break ground?
Peyton: Being there as the project broke ground was incredibly rewarding. It started to sink in that something I helped create could serve as a backdrop for students during such a pivotal time in their lives. It was both exciting and daunting to feel this sense of responsibility for the first time. What made it even more special was that this effort was part of VHB’s pro bono work through the Hampton Roads Sanitation District’s Community Commitment Plan. Knowing that this courtyard would not only enhance the school environment but also reflect a broader commitment to giving back to the community added an extra layer of purpose to the experience.
VHB: How has this experience shaped the kind of professional you want to be as you've transitioned into a full-time role at VHB?
Peyton: The internship experience emphasized the importance of always being open to learning and the impact that good mentorship can have. I want to carry these lessons forward in my career and help other designers feel this same sense of belonging. I hope to continue serving communities through my work, remaining committed to sustainability and community engagement in every project.
The Menchville High School courtyard project is more than just a physical space—it’s a symbol of growth and opportunity. For Peyton Ackerman, it marked the beginning of an exciting career journey. Her experience underscores how real-world projects and supportive workplaces can transform young professionals, paving the way for impactful careers that benefit both individuals and the communities they serve.
Learn more about the newly refurbished courtyard and the ribbon cutting ceremony.
