Skip to main content

Voices of Volunteering

The University of Virginia is grateful for the more than 4,000 dedicated alumni, families, and friends who generously give their time, talent, and voice to support and advance the mission and vision of the University. From mentoring students, hosting events, serving on boards, lecturing in classrooms, and advocating for our institution, their commitment strengthens our community and creates positive change.

This summer, UVA will launch a new website dedicated to providing opportunities for new volunteers to get involved and celebrate the impact current volunteers are making across the Grounds.  

Today, we invite you to read the stories below to learn what inspires our alumni, friends, and parents to give back and how they are cultivating a vibrant community through their leadership. 

Featured Volunteers

Volunteers

"Volunteering at UVA is more than just giving your time; it's about contributing to the growth of the University and enriching students' lives, all while rekindling the joy and spirit that the University has given us. It’s easy and rewarding to give your time; just find something that interests you - like volunteering as a Reunions Committee Member, working with your local UVA Club, or mentoring students."

John Bradshaw (ARCH ’84), Jefferson Trust Trustee, and Jane Bradshaw (Col ’85) Jefferson Trust Trustee, Reunions Volunteer, and College of Arts & Sciences Benefactors Society Board member

Volunteer Stories

"My time at UVA built a foundation of knowledge, resilience, and thoughtfulness that shaped my life journey. As a Black engineering graduate, I deeply appreciate the responsibility of giving back and sharing my experiences with all 'Hoos. Volunteering is an honor and a privilege—a chance to support and uplift each other in meaningful ways. I’m grateful to be part of this incredible community."

Art Fuller (ENG ’86, PAR ’19), Alumni Association Board of Managers, Engineering classroom speaker and student mentor, Reunions Volunteer 

Volunteer Stories

"Serving and supporting UVA over the last four years has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience because it has deepened my connection to this community and the people within it. What inspires me most is seeing the impact—big or small—that my efforts have on others, knowing that even small actions can contribute to something greater than myself."

Riley McNeill, Class of 2025, Fourth Year Class Trustee 

Volunteer Stories

The UVA alumni base is very strong. We share a common bond - our love of The University. 
Bringing together Hoos from all backgrounds and decades through UVA Clubs is important to me. UVA Clubs offer fellow Hoos our own local community to connect and support each other, where we live.

Al Park (Col ’99), Member, Alumni Association Board of Managers; Co-President, UVA Club of Phoenix 

Volunteer Stories

"The education I received at UVA/McIntire didn't just prepare me for a line of work—it shaped who I am. Volunteering by sharing industry and career insights with UVA/McIntire students is my way of expressing gratitude and ensuring current students have the same transformative opportunities."

Andy Simonoff, (COM ’94, PAR ’26), McIntire Advisory Board, McIntire classroom speaker  

Volunteer Stories
 

Volunteer StoriesThe Generous Spirit Behind Darden’s Most Anticipated Alumni Bash in Washington, DC
Porter White (Darden ’01) shared his fascinating journey from DreamWorks to Darden, and why the School holds such a special place in his heart.

When it comes to supporting Darden, Porter White (MBA ’01) has a unique blend of generosity and style. As the global head of management and enterprise business intelligence at Bloomberg LP...

Read More

 

Volunteer Stories#MeetUsMonday - Meet Pediatric NP and Preceptor Christy
Christy Murray, who works at UVA Children's pediatric oncology and hematology clinic, plays Legos during a visit with a three-year-old oncology patient.

Meet Pediatric NP and Preceptor Christy. A pediatric nurse practitioner at UVA Children’s and a preceptor to advanced practice nursing students in the School’s graduate program...

Read More

 

Volunteer StoriesIt Takes an Academical Village
Ruben Basantes (Col ’92) puts a spin on a familiar adage: “It takes a village to raise a first-generation college student,” he said.

His village includes hardworking family members, supportive friends, generous scholarship donors, encouraging co-workers, and UVA faculty and administrators who guided and believed in him...

Read More

 

Volunteer StoriesA Lifetime Volunteer
Driven by a lifelong passion for volunteering, a UVA alumna gives back to the Batten School

Big accomplishments can have humble origins—like a child’s lemonade stand. When she was six years old, Lauren Russell (Col ’16, Batten ’17) raised $20 for Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters in Norfolk...


Read More

CONNECT WITH VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT

GET INVOLVED

Learn about the many volunteer opportunities available at UVA.

Don’t see a volunteer opportunity that meets your interest or skill set? 

Having trouble determining the appropriate person or area to contact for your volunteer interest?

Contact Us

Volunteers at a park clean up

SHARE YOUR STORY

Help us celebrate all the good our Wahoos do!

We invite you to share your story of how and why you are called to serve the University of Virginia through volunteering. 

Share Your Story

Students sitting around a desk looking at a screen with a powerpoint

Contact Andrea
ANDREA DEVINE (M.ED '25)
Senior Director, Volunteer Engagement 
Image
Andrea Devine headshot