The University of Virginia offers one of the most rewarding and powerful educational experiences available anywhere. Undergraduate students here are not only bright and talented but are also hardworking, motivated by curiosity, committed to public service, and interested in the many opportunities the University has to offer.

The student experience covers a broadening array of activities. It includes life in the classroom, residence halls, and on the Lawn. Students participate in athletics and arts events, career activities such as conferences and research presentations, and study abroad or organizational and leadership opportunities—as well as many others. It’s all part of a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience that gives every University of Virginia student the opportunity to thrive.

For those students facing financial challenges that could inhibit their participation, there’s the Cavalier Fund.

Administered by the Division of Student Affairs, the Cavalier Fund ensures that students have the means to take advantage of opportunities. Eligible students may apply for grants of up to $1,000 per academic year to support their interest and participation in co-curricular activities that supplement the University’s academics.

President Jim Ryan shared the news about UVA's investment in the Cavalier Fund with UVA parents.

In 2022, President Jim Ryan announced the University’s investment of $10 million in the Cavalier Fund to remove financial barriers for undergraduate students. The investment made resources available to match any endowed gift of $100,000 or more, paid within five years, with $.50 for every $1. Since then, the fund has received more than $5,320,391 in commitments from 140 supporters.

The Cavalier Fund received a major boost when a recent anonymous gift from UVA parents created an endowment that qualified for matching funds and will provide steady growth and continued support for the future. They explained why they made the gift and how extracurricular pursuits play an important role at the University:

“Our son and daughter have had incredibly fulfilling, enriching journeys at UVA. While they enjoyed their academic experiences very much, some of their most joyful memories are from activities outside of the classroom. We were thrilled to be able to make these types of experiences accessible to more students by supporting the Cavalier Fund. We’re fully on board with President Ryan’s desire to bring the full gamut of UVA opportunities within reach for all students."

Examples of activities supported by Cavalier Fund grants include the following:

• Membership in registered, active student organizations, for example Greek-letter organizations, honor societies, club sport teams, and para-professional organizations
   
• Activities sponsored by student organizations or University offices such as travel to a lecture, tickets for arts and cultural experiences, registration for and travel to individual or team competitions, and fees associated with recreation and outdoor adventure excursions

• UVA Recreation group fitness or intramurals

• Community service activities, including Madison House-sponsored events, Alternative Spring Break, or other service-related organization activities (funds may cover travel to service locations and lodging)
   
• Supplies for co-curricular programming or experiences, including technology, sports equipment, or printing of research posters that may be needed to participate in or attend functions
   
• Costs associated with attending or participating in a University-sponsored professional or pre-professional conference or research-related experience including registration fees, transportation, lodging, and meals not provided by the conference

On the Lawn: Kenyon Bonner, vice president and chief student affairs officer, with UVA undergraduate students.

Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer Kenyon Bonner leads approximately 300 student affairs professionals supporting undergraduate as well as graduate and professional students through all aspects of the student experience, from enrollment to graduation.

Reporting to the president and the provost, he oversees a diverse portfolio, including Student Health & Wellness, Housing & Residence Life, the UVA Career Center, the Office of African-American Affairs, Policy, Accountability & Critical Events, and several areas reporting to the Dean of Students: Orientation & Transition Programs, Student Engagement & Event Management, Multicultural Student Services, Hoos First, Fraternity & Sorority Life, administration of the Rotunda, and Student Center Facility Operations.

A first-generation college student himself, Bonner stresses the importance of a sense of belonging to student success, a topic of his doctoral research. He wants every student to know they belong at UVA and he’s dedicated to ensuring everyone has a chance to participate. The Cavalier Fund offers financial help that goes a long way to help students participate on Grounds and beyond the University.

“This is an environment where you can learn a whole lot about the world, about people, and about yourself,” Bonner said. “We have great faculty, great research, and great students, who provide that environment. So be curious. You belong here and do not suffer in silence. Please ask for help.”

Powerful and rewarding student experiences are now accessible. The Cavalier Fund makes them possible.