For the Love of the Students
For four decades, the UVA Parents Fund has served as a quiet force on Grounds, dedicated to enhancing the undergraduate experience through grants that support key student activities and initiatives. Sustained by annual gifts from parents of current and former students, the group supports clubs and cultural events; academic enhancement programs; career services; health, wellness, and safety initiatives; and University traditions.
Earlier this March, when the pandemic was declared and the University announced that students should return home, many faced sudden, unexpected costs related to maintaining their studies. The Parents Fund, which has earned a reputation as a nimble source of support for students during times of need, made several meaningful contributions to the University community.
A $250,000 grant to the University’s Student Life and Leadership Fund, enabling students in need to receive immediate support with travel, meals, technology, and other necessities.
Direct aid to four student organizations whose work aims to improve undergraduate life during this challenging time. These include College Unfiltered, VA Text, Young Not Broke, and Brave Virtual Worlds.
Seventeen grants through the Parents Rainy Day Fund and the Student Enrichment Fund. The first supports students experiencing sudden financial adversity, such as the need for tuition support due to parent illness. The second gives students the financial means to participate in academic development experiences.
An additional 10 grants offered in partnership with the UVA Career Center to support students whose summer employment plans were cancelled. These grants enabled the center to secure public service internships for the students.