Commitment to Student Success

The Smiths have made a notable philanthropic commitment to the University of Virginia (UVA), previously funding scholarships in women’s basketball and at the McIntire School of Commerce. Their latest gift aligns with the Virginia Athletics Foundation’s mission to create enduring endowments supporting scholarships and operational costs, which is particularly crucial as the landscape of collegiate athletics continues to change.

Director of Athletics Carla Williams expressed gratitude for their sizable investment. “Their gift not only supports our core mission to educate and develop student-athletes, but their generosity through endowments will impact the entire athletics program in perpetuity,” Williams stated. The contribution will bolster recruiting efforts and enhance competitive performance, thereby inspiring the university’s coaches and student-athletes alike.

Enhancing Business Education

At the McIntire School of Commerce, the Smiths’ contributions arrive at a crucial time, following significant renovations, including the opening of Shumway Hall and updates to Cobb Hall. Katie Whittier, associate dean for advancement and executive director of the McIntire Foundation, highlighted the importance of their support.

“Thanks to the Smiths’ extraordinary generosity, their gift will provide high-achieving students with access to a premier business education,” Whittier said. This commitment to scholarship funding is designed to empower future generations in the business arena and ensure a lasting legacy for the Smiths.

The Cavalier Fund Initiative

Another pivotal initiative, the Cavalier Fund, was launched as a pilot program in 2022 with an ambitious goal of establishing a $30 million endowment. This program offers annual grants of $1,000 to eligible students for all aspects of their university experience.

Lukas Lehman, a beneficiary of the fund, shared how financial support can extend beyond academics. “I came to UVA and quickly learned that education expands far beyond the classroom, which is amazing, but also that comes with a financial cost,” said Lehman. He credited the Cavalier Fund with making his membership in Phi Delta Theta, an influential organization at UVA, financially feasible.

Long-lasting Impact of Philanthropy

UVA President Jim Ryan emphasized the transformative nature of educational and athletic support, attributing this ongoing legacy to the Smiths’ donations over the past 35 years. “Their support… will create meaningful opportunities for future generations of students,” Ryan noted. Such continuous investment is designed not just to meet immediate needs but to foster a sustainable environment for future student-athletes and academic achievers.