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Dr. Richard Abidin has an affinity for the Uni- versity of Virginia that seemingly is difficult to match. "By being a part of the Virginia Athletics Foun- dation, you become part of the athletics com- munity," said Abidin, who's a professor emeritus in Virginia's Curry Program in the Clinical and School Psychology of the Curry School of Educa- tion. "[My wife] Mary and I enjoy following the journey of UVa student-athletes through school and where they go from here. Giving becomes very personal because we get to know these stu- dents. It's a way to give back. It's not like giving in an abstract way. "We've had experiences where Mary and I visit them and get to know their families. I enjoy young people. Because of the friendships you make with people who follow these young individuals, it be- comes like an extended family." The Abidins have been VAF donors for 40 con- secutive years and season ticket holders for both football and men's basketball. Even though he's a Rutgers graduate ('60) and lacrosse alumnus, Abidin knows full well how be- ing a VAF donor can have a positive effect on UVa student-athletes. "The VAF, like the Rutgers Athletic Foundation from which I received a scholarship, helps create opportunities for young people, some who may not otherwise have a chance to go to college," he said. "I know that since high school where I was a vocational education student who, like many of those supported by the VAF, would not have gone to college. It transforms a person's life. WAHOO NATION DR. RICHARD ABIDIN Dr. Abidin (second from right) and his wife, Mary Abidin (far right) — seen here with their son-in- law Greg Canty (far left) and their daughter Lynn Canty (second from left) — have been VAF donors for 40 consecutive years. PHOTO COURTESY DR. RICHARD ABIDIN