The Unseen Team Behind UVA Darden’s Case Writing Excellence

In the classrooms of the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, students tackle real-world business challenges through case studies — dissecting complex management issues, developing critical decision-making skills and honing their communication abilities. These cases are the backbone of Darden’s unique teaching method, yet the efforts of those who help create them often go unseen.

Earlier this week, Beth Van Hook, director of finance, was recognized for her role in supporting this essential work. She was named the 2024 recipient of the Gerry Yemen Award for Excellence in Support of Case Writing, representing the many professionals whose behind-the-scenes efforts ensure the success of Darden’s case writing.

Amid applause, Van Hook stood at the podium, momentarily speechless. “Wow, I have no words,” she said.

The Gerry Yemen Award, now in its fourth year, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to Darden’s case writing efforts. The award is named after Gerry Yemen, who retired in 2024 after 25 years of leadership and prolific case writing at Darden, co-authoring more than 400 cases and mentoring a new generation of researchers.

The award was established by Larry Franklin, a former Darden lecturer and longtime friend of Yemen. He and his family — including his wife Mei Kwong Franklin and brother Sterling Franklin — as trustees of the Morris S. Smith Foundation have also funded scholarships and other initiatives that strengthen Darden’s experiential education. The Franklins are members of Darden’s Principal Donors Society.

During the award ceremony, Yemen emphasized the collaboration that goes into creating each case. “So many people in this room, you have touched case writing — you don’t even know how much you matter,” she said, underscoring the teamwork that drives Darden’s case-writing process.

As the 2024 recipient, Van Hook joins past honorees such as Eric Fletcher, director of enterprise compliance; Leslie Mullin, senior editor of Darden Business Publishing; and Stephen Maiden, managing director of the Darden Case Writing Research Group.

Explore Darden’s Global Impact Through Case Publishing

Darden Business Publishing (DBP) plays a vital role in the case writing process, distributing materials to over 130 countries. Its catalog includes more than 4,400 products, including case studies, technical notes, exercises and simulations. Each year, Darden faculty add around 150 new cases, which are classroom-tested and supported by teaching notes to ensure their relevance and impact.

To browse and purchase teaching materials, visit Darden Business Publishing.

A Vision for the Future: The Center for Transformational Learning

Looking ahead, Darden is committed to furthering its teaching excellence. A key goal of Faculty Forward, Milestone II of the Powered by Purpose campaign, which ends on 30 June 2025, is to inaugurate and endow the Center for Transformational Learning. This initiative aims to revolutionize faculty development, pioneer advanced case writing and integrate state-of-the-art technology to enhance student learning experiences.

For more information on how to support Darden’s case writing initiatives, contact Samantha Hartog, senior associate vice president of advancement, at +1-434-981-4025 or HartogS@darden.virginia.edu.