Unnamed Spaces

GROUNDS FOR SUCCESS

The Darden team inventoried unnamed, existing spaces on the Goodwin Family Grounds in Charlottesville, VA, and the Sands Family Grounds in Rosslyn, VA. Grounds for Success will leverage the full potential of our existing unnamed spaces to build a bridge to the future through support for faculty and student excellence.

Additionally, naming these spaces is a critical strategic priority for the success of the School and of Milestone II: Faculty Forward, allowing alumni to name spaces in recognition of their favorite or most impactful professors.

Key Opportunities
at Goodwin Family Grounds
Saunders Hall South Lounge
Classroom Building
Abbott Auditorium
Library Building
Naming Opportunities

Darden’s Charlottesville Grounds provide world-class spaces for learning, collaboration and faculty excellence. Home to Saunders Hall, Abbott Center, the Classroom Building, Camp Library, the Faculty Office Building and C. Ray Smith Alumni Hall, Goodwin Family Grounds is the center of the Darden experience. Through Grounds for Success, Darden is unlocking the potential of unnamed spaces, creating new opportunities to support students and faculty while ensuring the School’s legacy continues to grow.

Classroom Building

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Classroom Building is a two-story hub of learning designed to support Darden’s case method and interactive teaching approach. Home to Tiered Classrooms, Learning Team Rooms and the i.Lab the building fosters collaboration, critical thinking and hands-on problem-solving. With modern technology and thoughtfully designed spaces, it provides an immersive environment that prepares students for leadership in a dynamic business world.

Library Building

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Library Building is home to Camp Library, serving as a vital resource for research, learning and collaboration at Darden. In addition to housing an extensive collection of business literature and digital resources, the building features focus and research rooms, the Behavioral Research at Darden (BRAD) Lab and dedicated spaces for Darden’s key research centers, including the Institute for Business in Society, the Center for Global Initiatives, the Mayo Center for Asset Management, the Batten Institute and the newly formed LaCross AI Institute.

Abbott Center Auditorium

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Abbott Center Auditorium is a premier venue for lectures, panel discussions and special events at Darden. Equipped with advanced audiovisual technology and designed for flexibility, the auditorium provides an engaging setting for academic programming, guest speakers and community gatherings. As a central space within Abbott Center, it plays a key role in fostering thought leadership, knowledge exchange and collaboration within the Darden community.

Saunders Hall North Hall

Smith Alumni Gateway

Saunders Hall North Hall is an integral academic space within Goodwin Family Grounds, housing faculty offices, meeting rooms and classrooms. Designed to foster collaboration and mentorship, it provides faculty with a modern setting for research, case development and student engagement. Its strategic location within Saunders Hall enhances accessibility and interaction across the Darden community.

Saunders Hall South Hall

Smith Alumni Gateway

Saunders Hall South Hall is a vital academic hub, providing faculty, students and researchers with modern offices, collaboration spaces and classrooms. With its proximity to core learning areas, the South Hall supports an interdisciplinary approach to business education, reinforcing Darden’s commitment to faculty excellence and student success.

Abbott Center Central Dining Room

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Abbott Central Dining Room serves as the heart of the Darden community, offering a welcoming space where students, faculty and guests connect over meals and conversations. Designed for both casual dining and formal gatherings, the space fosters relationships and networking opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. With its warm atmosphere and flexible seating, it remains a central hub for engagement at Darden.

Classroom Building Pavilions (5)

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Classroom Building Pavilions provide two-level spaces designed to enhance collaboration and group learning. Each pavilion houses dedicated Learning Team Rooms, offering private settings for case discussions, team projects and small-group study sessions. The second level features porches overlooking Flagler Court, creating an inspiring open-air environment that fosters connection and reflection.

Saunders Hall South Lounge

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Saunders Hall South Lounge offers a relaxed yet professional space for students, faculty and executives to connect and unwind. Equipped with comfortable seating and modern furnishings, it provides a setting for informal meetings, networking events and small-group study sessions. Designed to encourage collaboration and engagement, the lounge strengthens the sense of community within Goodwin Family Grounds.

Saunders Hall South Lounge Patio

Smith Alumni Gateway

Extending the Saunders Hall South Lounge into the outdoors, this beautifully landscaped patio provides an open-air retreat for students and faculty. With scenic views and flexible seating arrangements, it offers a space for relaxation, conversation and informal gatherings. The patio serves as a natural extension of Darden’s learning environment, connecting business education with the beauty of the surrounding Grounds.

Saunders Hall Flag Hallway

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Saunders Hall Flag Hallway is a defining architectural feature within Goodwin Family Grounds, symbolizing Darden’s global reach and international influence. Lined with flags representing the diverse backgrounds of the Darden community, the hallway serves as a daily reminder of the School’s commitment to global business education and cross-cultural engagement.

Abbott Auditorium Main Lobby

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Abbott Auditorium Main Lobby serves as the grand entrance to one of Darden’s premier event spaces. Designed to welcome students, faculty and distinguished guests, it provides a professional and inviting atmosphere for pre-event networking and post-session discussions. With elegant finishes and flexible gathering areas, the lobby enhances the experience of those attending lectures, conferences and special events.

Classroom Building Classroom (5)

Smith Alumni Gateway

These state-of-the-art classrooms within the Classroom Building are designed to enhance Darden’s interactive learning approach. Featuring tiered seating, advanced audiovisual technology and flexible layouts, they provide the ideal setting for case discussions and faculty-led instruction. These classrooms play a vital role in preparing students for leadership through immersive and dynamic learning experiences.

Classroom Building Study Room (33)

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Classroom Building Study Rooms provide dedicated spaces for group collaboration, case preparation and quiet study. Designed to support both teamwork and individual focus, these rooms are essential for student success, offering a professional environment where ideas are developed, strategies are refined and leadership skills are strengthened.

Interview Room (7)

Smith Alumni Gateway

Designed to support career development and employer engagement, the Interview Rooms provide a professional setting for student interviews, networking sessions and corporate recruitment. These well-appointed spaces create an environment that allows students to present themselves confidently while connecting with potential employers, reinforcing Darden’s commitment to career advancement and leadership development.

Space Status Cost
Goodwin Family Grounds
Classroom Building Available $15,000,000
Library Building Available $15,000,000
Abbott Center Auditorium Available $5,000,000
Saunders Hall North Hall Available $5,000,000
Saunders Hall South Hall Available $5,000,000
Abbott Center Central Dining Room Available $3,000,000
Classroom Building Pavilions (5) Available $3,000,000
Saunders Hall South Lounge Available $3,000,000
Saunders Hall South Lounge Patio Available $2,000,000
Saunders Hall Flag Hallway Available $1,500,000
Abbott Auditorium Main Lobby Available $1,000,000
Classroom Building Classroom (5) Available $250,000
Classroom Building Study Room (33) Available $100,000
Interview Room (7) Available $75,000

For more information, please contact Samantha Hartog, Senior Associate Vice President, Advancement, at HartogS@darden.virginia.edu or +1-434-981-4025.

Key Opportunities
at Sands Family Grounds
Common Area
Reception
Naming Opportunities

Darden’s Washington, D.C., area campus provides a modern hub for business education and leadership development. Located in Rosslyn, Sands Family Grounds is home to Darden’s Executive MBA, Part-Time MBA and Executive Education programs, offering state-of-the-art classrooms, meeting spaces and panoramic views of the capital. As part of Grounds for Success, Darden is activating unnamed and recently renovated and constructed spaces to support faculty and student excellence while strengthening its presence in one of the world’s most influential business centers.

D.C. Dome Room

Smith Alumni Gateway

Inspired by the iconic Dome Room of the Rotunda, the D.C. Dome Room serves as a central hub within Sands Family Grounds, connecting classrooms, meeting spaces and executive learning areas. Featuring a striking architectural design and a signature spiral staircase linking multiple floors, the space fosters interaction and movement.

Potomac River Room

Smith Alumni Gateway

With sweeping views of the Potomac River, this elegantly designed meeting space creates a dynamic environment for collaboration and discussion. Ideal for executive education, student study groups and alumni gatherings, the Potomac River Room blends modern functionality with a prestigious setting, reinforcing Darden’s presence in the heart of the nation’s business and policy community.

Capital Classroom

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Capital Classroom is a premier learning space designed to facilitate case discussions, guest lectures and hands-on learning for Executive MBA, Part-Time MBA and Executive Education participants. Featuring state-of-the-art technology and a flexible layout, it supports Darden’s interactive learning model while providing a seamless connection to the global business and policy hub of Washington, D.C.

Arlington Classroom

Smith Alumni Gateway

Located within Sands Family Grounds, the Arlington Classroom is a thoughtfully designed space that supports faculty-led instruction, group discussions and hybrid learning experiences. With advanced audiovisual capabilities and modern furnishings, it provides an optimal setting for engaging coursework, executive programs and leadership development sessions.

Rosslyn Classroom

Smith Alumni Gateway

Designed to support Darden’s innovative and immersive learning experiences, the Rosslyn Classroom offers a bright, modern environment for students and professionals. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and flexible seating, it accommodates a range of teaching styles, from interactive case discussions to executive seminars. Positioned within Sands Family Grounds, it places students at the intersection of business and policy.

Conference Room

Smith Alumni Gateway

This executive-level Conference Room provides a professional and sophisticated space for strategic meetings, faculty collaborations and high-level discussions. Outfitted with the latest technology and designed for privacy, it serves as a key setting for business leaders, faculty and students to engage in meaningful dialogue and decision-making.

National Landing Classroom

Smith Alumni Gateway

The National Landing Classroom is a modern, technology-enabled learning space designed to support Darden’s Executive MBA, Part-Time MBA and Executive Education programs. With a flexible layout and advanced audiovisual capabilities, it accommodates case discussions, lectures and group work. As part of Sands Family Grounds, it provides a professional setting for students and executives to engage in dynamic, high-impact learning experiences.

Team Room 3162

Smith Alumni Gateway

Team Room 3162 is a dedicated breakout space designed to foster collaboration, teamwork and small-group learning. Whether used for case study preparation, executive program discussions or strategic planning, the room provides an intimate yet functional setting to enhance productivity and engagement within Sands Family Grounds.

Reception

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Reception area at Sands Family Grounds serves as the welcoming point for students, faculty, alumni and business leaders. Designed to create a professional yet inviting atmosphere, the space sets the tone for engagement and connection. Its modern design and strategic location make it an essential part of the executive learning environment.

Commonwealth Board Room

Smith Alumni Gateway

The Commonwealth Board Room is a premier space for high-level meetings, strategy sessions and leadership discussions. Featuring elegant design and advanced conferencing technology, it provides a refined setting for executives, faculty and students to engage in meaningful dialogue and decision-making.

Common Area (3)

Smith Alumni Gateway

These open and inviting Common Areas provide flexible gathering spaces for students, executives and faculty to connect, collaborate and unwind. Designed to support networking, casual discussions and individual study, each area fosters a sense of community within Sands Family Grounds. With modern furnishings and a dynamic atmosphere, these spaces enhance the overall learning and engagement experience.

Space Status Cost
Sands Family Grounds
D.C. Dome Room Available $250,000
Potomac River Room Available $150,000
Capital Classroom Available $150,000
Arlington Classroom Available $150,000
Rosslyn Classroom Available $150,000
Conference Room Available $150,000
National Landing Classroom Available $125,000
Team Room 3162 Available $100,000
Reception Available $100,000
Commonwealth Board Room Available $100,000
Common Area (3) Available $100,000

For more information, please contact Samantha Hartog, Senior Associate Vice President, Advancement, at HartogS@darden.virginia.edu or +1-434-981-4025.