Cavalier Corner is the publication just for UVa sports fans!
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Dear Cavalier Friends, The fall has been full of activity both on the fields of competition and in our office. I'd like to share some highlights with you and provide an update on our fundraising efforts this year. Celebrating Milestones for our Members and Virginia Athletics We celebrated the loyalty of 41 donors at the 3rd annual 40-year Milestone Dinner on September 20 at Morven Farm. This special evening honored VAF members who reached their 40th anniversary for consecutive years of giving in 2012. They were also recognized on the field at halftime of the football game versus VMI. These 41 donors contributed over $3.35 million during the past 40 years, which is a remarkable show of support. Continuing with the 40-year theme, we celebrated 40 Years of Women in Sports at the University during our All-Sports Reunion weekend October 25-26. Current and former student-athletes representing four decades gathered for dinner and a special program at the Boar's Head Inn. Guest speakers reminisced about the very first women's teams at UVa to the most recent successes of teams, like this year's women's soccer team. A surprise highlight of the evening was the announcement of The Jane Miller Endowed Scholarship. The idea and contributions for this scholarship started with many of Jane's former players and is an example of the kind of support needed to take women's athletics to the next level of success in the years to come. Jane Miller, legendary field hockey and lacrosse coach, is currently the Senior Associate Director of Athletics for Programs. i3-6.VAF.indd 4 During each home football game we highlight a VAF Member of the Game, recognizing their support of the Foundation. These donors are also featured on our website. This is one way we can share the faces and stories behind the donors who support over 650 studentathletes each year. We are truly fortunate to have their loyal and generous support. Finishing the Fundraising Year We are entering the final two months of our fundraising year and we have a great deal of work to do. Based on our projections, we are currently tracking to finish the year behind our $14.9 million goal. Our scholarship expense continues to rise—increasing 35% in the last six years—which has created a significant challenge for the Foundation and put an increased strain on our annual fund. For each of the last four years, we have relied on cash reserves to fulfill our scholarship commitment, a trend we cannot afford to continue. As you think about your year-end charitable giving plans, I would ask that you consider a few options. Over 3,000 donors have increased their pledge over their gift from the previous year. If you haven't done so, please consider making an additional investment in Virginia athletics by adding to your contribution. Secondly, if you have appreciated securities, please consider using those as a way to make your contribution. It can be a useful tax strategy as well as a good way to support our studentathletes. You can also get a jump on your 2014 gift by allocating a year-end contribution to next year. For more information on ways to make a year-end contribution, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our staff. 11/5/13 3:57 PM