hen John (Arch ’84) and Jane (Col ’85) Bradshaw were students at UVA in the early 80s, they developed a strong bond with the University. “Some of the things that are really special about UVA are the connections you make, the friendships,” Jane said.

“And there’s a connection to the place, too.” John added. “We both obviously love the University and loved our time being there.”

For them, the Rotunda was a magnificent building you passed on the way to class—a historic symbol that was rarely visited. “I don’t think I ever went in there when I was a student,” said Jane. “I don’t really have memories of the Rotunda other than seeing it from the exterior, but it’s such a beautiful place.” 

When UVA undertook a multi-year renovation and restoration of the Rotunda, the Bradshaws were already active in their respective class reunion committees. Observing this newly accessible and functional space as it opened to students and the public was a game-changer for them. “Our first real philanthropic endeavor with UVA, other than giving back for Reunions, was with the Rotunda restoration,” Jane said.

“That was the springboard for everything else,” said John. The Bradshaws have recently made a planned gift to the University, where along with their giving to historic preservation in the Academical Village, the University Chapel (where they were married), and the Memorial to Enslaved Laborers, they have designated that a portion go to the Office of Engagement to support Lifetime Learning initiatives and UVA Clubs.

A Team Approach

Opening the UVA experience to members of the Charlottesville community and entering students is a theme that threads through the Bradshaws’ expansive philanthropy and volunteer involvement. 

Jane serves on the College Foundation’s Benefactors Society Board, and as members of the Alumni Association, the couple has pledged support for the Wayne D. Cozart Reunions Endowment Fund.

As trustees serving on the Jefferson Trust’s board, they have made a planned gift to create a named grant endowment. They’ve also made provisions in their estate plan to endow undergraduate scholarships for first-generation undergraduate students and graduate fellowships in both the Architecture School and College.  “We also have planned gifts to the Virginia Athletics Foundation to support baseball and women’s basketball,” Jane added.

And they’ve worked diligently to encourage other alums to consider what it is they love about UVA and then find a way to support that passion. 

“One of the things we try to say to alums is that ordinary people like us can actually give back,” John said. “I feel like we’re relatable.” Jane added: “When I talk to people about reunion giving, I say ‘Give, give what you can. What do you care about at UVA? What was your passion?’ Everything helps, because when you add it all up, good things happen.”

By taking a team approach to engaging with the University, the Bradshaws cover a lot of ground but invariably find themselves drawn back to the Lawn. It feels natural to them. “There’s a certain feeling of presence and space there that I can’t imagine any other school can offer,” said Jane. “The Rotunda is still one of my favorite places. It’s very calming.”

Like many couples, especially those who met at UVA, John picks up Jane’s thought and runs with it. “Walking onto Grounds on any given day, we’re not lost,” he said. “We feel like it’s home.”