Impact and Recognition
Darden maintains a rich and deep culture of philanthropy in which the extensive Darden community — from students and faculty, to volunteers and alumni, to corporations and parents — supports the achievements of the School and those who walk its halls. Collectively, this loyal community allows Darden to deliver on the promise of its mission and help future leaders pursue their purpose. The incredible impact the Darden community makes by powering investment in the School’s faculty, students, Grounds, education experience and future is awe inspiring. Your philanthropy changes lives, and we are grateful.
Thank You, Darden Community!
Your overwhelming support for Day for Darden has made a profound impact! Together, we've rallied nearly 1,500 donors and raised over $1 million. This investment in the Darden Annual Fund will be immediately put to work, funding scholarships, supporting our world-class faculty, and fueling innovative programs. Thank you for being an integral part of Darden's success and future growth.
How does Frank M. Sands Sr. (MBA ’63) ensure Darden is the leader in lifelong learning? Read about his transformational gift.
Kirsti W. Goodwin (MBA ’02) is paving the way for exceptionally qualified women to attend Darden and become future business leaders.
Lem Lewis (MBA ’72) is rewarding students who improve the Darden community by demonstrating a commitment to increase inclusiveness.
“ The proud recipients of your support will someday be the leaders who go on to change the world. I hope someday soon, we will be sitting in the same chairs where you now sit, next to a new set of scholars to whom we are able to give back. ”
These individuals and families, through their lifetime generosity, have made a transformational impact on the School’s ability to achieve its full potential.
The Cornerstone Society comprises alumni, parents, faculty and friends who have made planned gifts to the University of Virginia or its related foundations.
Darden Society-level leadership support ensures Darden’s ability to offer a world-class faculty and the world’s best educational experience to top students.
Hickory was Dean Charles C. Abbott’s ever-loyal black Labrador retriever. The Hickory Club recognizes Darden alumni who have given consistently each year for a minimum of three years.
Elevating Darden's Experience
Read the latest issue of Pillars, Darden’s philanthropy newsletter, for the stories about the alumni leaders, loyal supporters, strategic priorities and incredible progress that drive the Powered by Purpose campaign.
Alumni Magazine Winter 2024
"At Darden, our ideas don’t just advance business practice, they are instrumental in creating a transformational learning experience."
– Scott C. Beardsley, Dean and Charles C. Abbott Professor of Business Administration
Campaign Milestone I Report
In 2023, the campaign achieved its first milestone two years ahead of the 30 June 2025 deadline, raising an unprecedented $406 million. With the inclusion of matching funds and those held outside of Darden, the total impact of the campaign stands at $505 million.
Volunteers: A Vital Resource
Contributors to Success
Be a part of Darden’s fulcrum moment.