Hugo Mogollón, is the recipient of the 2025 College of Natural Resources and Environment Outstanding Recent Alumnus Award. A 2015 graduate of the Executive Master of Natural Resources (XMNR) program at Virginia Tech, he has made a profound impact on both his professional field and our community.

Since graduating, Hugo has applied the skills he gained at Virginia Tech to lead transformative initiatives in both conservation and food security. Hugo’s work has spanned multiple sectors, from serving as executive director of FRESHFARM and Community Foodworks to forging critical conservation partnerships through his leadership with the non-profit Finding Species.

He has been recognized for his exceptional work in nonprofit leadership with the EXCEL Leadership Award and the David Bradt Nonprofit Leadership Award.

As President and CEO of Galápagos Conservancy, he returns to his roots in conservation, ready to protect one of the world's most iconic ecosystems. His passion for sustainability, resilience, and leadership is matched only by his commitment to lifelong learning.

Hugo has also remained deeply engaged with Virginia Tech, contributing to the XMNR program as a mentor, guest speaker, and sponsor of service-learning projects. His dedication to giving back to the college, sharing his expertise, and inspiring future generations of Hokies exemplifies the spirit of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).