ABOUT THE CAMPAIGN
PLANTING THE SEEDS OF TRANSFORMATION
IN A WORLD WHERE business leaders are called to address complex global challenges, Darden leads with purpose. In 2016, we shared Darden Worldwide 2026, a bold vision to bolster our mission and global stature. This vision has sparked innovation, attracted exceptional talent and championed best-in-class infrastructure.
These strategic pillars blossomed into the Powered by Purpose campaign, focused on the following campaign priorities:
LAUNCHED PUBLICLY IN 2019, the Powered by Purpose campaign embodies Darden’s ethos of empowering individuals, not just teaching business. We champion individuals as the sparks of innovation and success in the business world. The campaign aims to create an environment where individuals can grow, network and thrive. It places human needs at the forefront, especially during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Importantly, it seeks to cultivate an inclusive global community, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives in business.
IN 2023, THE CAMPAIGN achieved its first milestone two years ahead of the 30 June 2025 deadline, raising an unprecedented $406 million. This impressive achievement reflects the enduring commitment of the Darden community. With the inclusion of matching funds and those held outside of Darden, the total impact of the campaign stands at $505 million. What’s truly remarkable is the strong engagement from our alumni network: an astounding 70 percent of alumni actively participated in this transformative initiative. This deep-seated connection and active participation underscore the lasting bond our graduates share with Darden and each other.
Faculty, Thought Leadership & Curricular Innovation
Scholarships, Financial Aid & Student Experience
Darden Grounds Master Plan, Technology & Innovation
Honor the Future
It’s a critical time for business and society — a time in which business leaders are called to solve some of the world’s most intractable problems. Changes in business, society and graduate business education present Darden — and you — with an incredible opportunity: to show the world that Darden values create value and that purpose drives progress. With your support, we will invest in the business leaders of tomorrow who will bring Darden values and purpose-driven leadership to organizations and individuals across the globe. Together, we will ensure that Darden redefines modern business and improves the world.
Yes. All gifts made to Darden during the Powered by Purpose campaign will count toward UVA’s Honor the Future campaign and its $5 billion goal. Along with other UVA schools and units, Darden announced an ambitious fundraising goal in October 2019 that, when realized, will secure Darden’s position as the preeminent global business school that develops purpose-driven leaders who will improve the world.
The campaign officially began on 1 July 2013, following the completion of the previous campaign for Darden, and will conclude on 30 June 2025. The public phase launched October 2019, in conjunction with UVA’s Honor the Future campaign.
All contributions made to Darden between 1 July 2013 and 30 June 2025. This includes support of the Darden Annual Fund; major gifts to Darden; and planned gifts, such as bequests or annuities. Whether you support the campaign at the $100, $10,000 or $1 million-plus level, every gift counts and every gift matters.
The Powered by Purpose campaign supports four critical priorities, which reflect the strategic priorities of the School:
- Faculty, Thought Leadership and Curricular Innovation
- Scholarships, Financial Aid and Student Experience
- Darden Grounds Master Plan, Technology and Innovation
- Darden Annual Fund
Your participation matters. The Powered by Purpose campaign is about more than fundraising; it’s about the life of the School and the impact Darden is making on the world.
In addition to supporting the campaign via philanthropic gifts, you are invited to serve in volunteer roles, stay in-the-know on campaign progress and opportunities, and share your passion with classmates and sectionmates as we move the School forward.
To learn more about participating in Darden’s Powered by Purpose campaign, please contact the Office of Advancement at advancement@darden.virginia.edu or +1-434-297-6371.
Whether establishing a named fund, leaving a legacy with a planned gift or making an immediate impact with a Darden Annual Fund donation, every gift makes a difference in the campaign.
We host events across the globe. Attending an event or opening your home or office for the Darden community provides immeasurable support and outreach of the campaign and its priorities.
While Darden reunions bring together classmates, faculty and friends on Grounds, they also elevate philanthropy to the School. Reunions and their key volunteers drive progress across Darden’s campaign priorities.
The Darden community is defined by active alumni, faculty, parents, friends and students. Stay connected to the School by providing up-to-date mailing and contact information in the alumni directory.