Mike Van Yahres
Mike has made it his mission to keep Van Yahres Associates and its clients two steps ahead of the competition. Mike, who founded the firm in 1980, oversees many of the firm’s projects and concentrates on client development. A third-generation arborist, his years of experience in construction, arboriculture and forestry support his practical and innovative approach to design, construction and campus maintenance. Mike’s articles have been published in national magazines and he is invited to speak all over the country primarily on the subjects of campus design and arboricultural assessment.

Peggy Van Yahres
Peggy wears more hats than anyone in the office. She is the firm’s business manager as well as a project manager and designer and has primary responsibility for keeping everyone else in line. A community organizer, former teacher and member of the Charlottesville School Board, she has vast experience in group leadership and community advocacy. Some of Peggy’s major projects include the master plan and entrance improvements for Salem Academy and College, Wake Forest University’s renovated central quad, the campus improvement plan and numerous site designs for Hampden-Sydney College and Washington & Jefferson College.

Syd Knight
Syd, who also has a background in urban planning and design, practiced in Ohio and Minnesota before joining Van Yahres Associates in 1990. It is a very unusual person who can be highly organized and attentive to details while never losing track of the big picture. These qualities make Syd the firm’s conscience and foster a balanced and innovative design approach. Syd’s major projects include the master plan and five phases of campus-wide site improvements for Wright State University, master plans for the University of Central Arkansas and Guilford College and extensive site projects for Messiah College and Bridgewater College.