![](https://news.darden.virginia.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Saunders-with-runner-896x504-1-684x390.jpg)
Yael Grushka-Cockayne, Melissa Thomas-Hunt Appointed as UVA Darden Vice Deans
Dean Scott Beardsley, who was reappointed in December 2024, named Senior Associate Deans Yael Grushka-Cockayne and Melissa Thomas-Hunt as Vice Deans, effective Feb. 1
![](https://news.darden.virginia.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LAFundraiser-684x390.jpg)
Angelenos at Darden Pull Together to Provide LA Fire Relief
On Thursday, the students came together with others from the Darden and Charlottesville communities for a wildfire relief fundraiser at Three Notch’d Brewery to support those affected by the Los Angeles fires. The event featured a raffle and silent auction, with items donated by local businesses and Darden alumni, reflecting the outpouring of support for this cause. All of the money raised is intended to go directly to the Los Angeles Fire Department and families affected by the tragedy.
![](https://news.darden.virginia.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMGL8198.jpg)
Q&A: Darden’s Solutions for Developing Functional Leadership
As the world moves faster and with more complexity, leaders face pressure to be both technically advanced in their specific area and also able to think and operate at an increasing enterprise level. Functional leadership helps leaders in key functional areas of a company – such as marketing, finance, human resources or operations – improve and develop expertise in that function while also understanding how the pieces fit together in the entire organization.
![](https://news.darden.virginia.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/GoodwillFinds_-_Picking_an_Order_dxp90a-684x390.jpg)
Goodwill’s New Resale Platform Is Way More High-Tech Than You Might Think
As Black Friday approaches, savvy shoppers are discovering that thrifting offers a sustainable alternative to traditional retail, with unique finds at bargain prices. One leader transforming the thrift shopping experience is Matt Kaness (MBA '02). When the opportunity to serve as CEO arose to lead GoodwillFinds eCommerce, a new social enterprise building an online marketplace for Goodwill organizations nationwide, he leapt at the chance.
![](https://news.darden.virginia.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Yay-6-scaled-e1731334895611-684x390.jpg)
From Service to Strategy, Darden Veterans Reflect on Their Journeys
Students who enroll in the Darden School of Business bring a diverse set of skills and interests to Grounds. Many also bring years of military service. The Darden Report recently visited with some of those individuals, seeking insight on their military experiences, lessons and why they chose Darden.
![](https://news.darden.virginia.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/EELL_Military-Leaders_Jessica-Ty-684x390.jpg)
Military Lessons for Business Leadership: Two Darden Voices of Experience
The Darden Report caught up with Jessica Wright and Ty Schieber to learn more about their experiences and observations on leadership in military and business settings.