This semester, we’ve begun a series exploring the history of our college community with
an eye toward our future. This week, we’ll be hearing from Tyler Puckett, an alumnus from the class of 2005 whose Roanoke roots run deep.
Q: What is your Roanoke story?
A: My roots at Roanoke College run deep, as the institution has played a significant role in my upbringing. Several members of my family—including my great uncle, father, older brother, wife, and myself—are proud Roanoke graduates. I vividly remember learning of my acceptance into the freshman class while working a shift at Mac & Bob’s, marking the beginning of my journey as a student at the College.
During my four years at Roanoke, I developed into an independent, free-thinking individual and gained a deeper understanding of what it means to navigate adulthood. While I may not have been a standout student academically, I was actively engaged in campus life through organizations such as the Campus Activities Board (CAB), Amnesty International, the Interfraternity Council (IFC), club lacrosse, and as a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.
Following graduation, I remained involved with the Roanoke community through the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. alumni chapters, organizing and participating in numerous events—including one memorable gathering at Mac & Bob’s, where I met my wife, Sarah (Class of 2012). Today, I continue to support the College through annual giving and participation in family-oriented events. My wife and I have two daughters, Gray and Reese, who have already spent time on campus, and I hope they will one day continue the family tradition as future Maroons.
Q: What is your fondest college memory?
A: During the spring break of my junior year, a few of my fraternity brothers and I took a road trip from snowy Salem down to Daytona Beach, Florida, stopping at several Pi Kappa Alpha chapters along the way.
Q: Where did you go post-graduation, and where are you now?
A: After graduating and spending a few years in the Outer Banks, I moved to Baltimore to begin my career in the sports industry. My first role was with US Lacrosse, where I had the opportunity to travel the country organizing coaching clinics for new and developing coaches as the sport gained momentum in nontraditional areas.
From there, I made the move to Washington, D.C., joining Major League Baseball in the sales department for the Washington Nationals—though I remain a loyal Orioles fan at heart (Go O’s!).
For nearly the past decade, I’ve been part of the golf and private club industry, managing sales for several clubs in Northern Virginia and leading the training and onboarding of new sales directors for Invited—49 and counting.
Outside of work, I’ve also pursued my passion for entrepreneurship, creating and building several brands from the ground up, including a sunglasses company and multiple clothing lines that were successfully sold.
My wife, Sarah, our daughters, Gray and Reese, and our goldendoodle, Finn, call Ashburn, Virginia, home. We enjoy spending time together and finding ways to stay active as a family.
Q: How has Roanoke prepared you for life after college, and what is the value of education in your life today?
A: My time at Roanoke College truly helped pave the way for my career by fostering a genuine curiosity and a lifelong willingness to learn. That mindset has continued to guide me throughout my personal and professional journey.
As we grow and evolve, our interests and priorities inevitably change. Understanding how we fit into an ever-changing world requires openness, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. I’ve come to realize that technology, relationships, friendships, and even the broader social and political landscape are always in motion—and that embracing education and growth is the best way to navigate those shifts with confidence and purpose.
Q: What would your advice to current Roanoke students be?
A: Build a strong network, and be genuine in your interest and engagement with it. Hard work alone will only take you so far; time and again, success often comes down to who you know as much as what you know. I encourage you to connect with me on LinkedIn if I can offer any guidance or support in your professional journey.
Maggie Raker
Culture, Wellness & Lifestyle
