UVA Darden Campaign Momentum Grows with New Principal Donors

A scholarship in honor of a grandfather. A professorship to elevate ethical leadership. A gathering space designed to inspire the next generation of principled decision-makers.

These are just a few of the gifts made by the newest members of the Principal Donors Society — individuals, families and organizations whose lifetime giving to the University of Virginia Darden School of Business now exceeds $1 million.

“What’s especially inspiring is seeing how the next generation is stepping up in such a powerful way,” said Dean Scott Beardsley. “That kind of momentum tells me: the future is in good hands.”

Dean Beardsley speaks during the Principal Donors Celebration. (Photo by JB Fitts)

New Faces, Enduring Impact

Four donors joined the Principal Donors Society at the Colonnade Level this spring, recognizing lifetime giving between $1 million and $2.49 million.

Charlene and Jeffrey Yao (MBA ’01) created the Yuyan Scholarship to support entrepreneurial students, honoring Jeffrey’s grandfather and the resilience that shaped his journey. The McIntyre Hawkings & Co. made a gift to the Institute for Business in Society, inspired by the lasting impact of Professor Ed Freeman’s teaching on responsible leadership. Adair and Kathryn Newhall (MBA ’09) expanded their support across multiple priorities, including The Washington Room at The Forum Hotel — a gathering space designed to encourage reflection and values-based leadership. An anonymous donor also joined the Society, making a meaningful commitment in support of Darden students.

Deepening Commitments, Expanding Opportunity

Several donors recently elevated their giving, reaching new milestones within the Principal Donors Society this spring.

Stephen and Phyllis Bachand (MBA ’63) advanced to the Monroe Level — recognizing lifetime giving between $5 million and $9.99 million — following the establishment of the Stephen E. Bachand University Professorship, which supports faculty leadership in ethical business. The Melville Foundation also moved to the Monroe Level in recognition of its continued investment in student fellowships and strategic capital priorities. E. Roe and Penny Stamps, through the Stamps Scholars Program, reached the Rotunda Level — which honors lifetime giving between $2.5 million and $4.99 million — for their national leadership in advancing scholarship and student opportunity.

These milestones come as Darden enters the final stretch of its historic Powered by Purpose campaign, set to conclude on 30 June 2025.

“These individuals and families represent the best of the Darden community — leading through generosity, vision and belief in what this school can accomplish,” said Rob Weiler, president of the Darden School Foundation.

Allison Bridges and Gregg Brooks celebrate the Genovese Fellows gift announcement. (Photo by JB Fitts)

A Legacy of Giving, Paid Forward

Among the Principal Donors whose legacy continues to shape Darden is Frank Genovese (MBA ’74), who, with his wife Susan, established the Frank E. Genovese Second Year Fellowship to support aspiring general managers. A member of the Society at the Monroe Level, Genovese has long challenged his fellows to pay it forward — not just through leadership, but through meaningful support for the School.

This spring, that vision came full circle, when in a surprise announcement led by Allison Bridges (MBA ’01) and Gregg Brooks (MBA ’09), the Genovese Fellows shared that they had collectively raised $2.8 million for Darden — through annual giving, endowed scholarships and planned commitments. The effort brings their total giving to $8.4 million, a reflection of the culture of generosity the Genoveses helped to build.

“Frank and Susan didn’t just fund our education,” said Bridges. “They showed us what it means to give back — and to lead with generosity.”

Frank and Susan Genovese and several Genovese Fellows outside The Forum Hotel. (Photo by JB Fitts)