Letter From the Foundation President

FROM THE DARDEN SCHOOL FOUNDATION

Michael J. Woodfolk (TEP ’05) Anyone who has spent time with a group of alumni from Darden’s early years will remember stories of Saturday classes, demanding case preparation and names of classmates who didn’t make it through the first quarter. Alumni likened it to “boot camp.” They share how they completed the program by leaning on each other and learning from each other, and now reflect on how a bond that was created and tested 50 or 60 years ago has stood the test of time.

Fast forward to 2021. There are no Saturday classes (or Friday classes!), and there are no suits and ties in the classroom (unless a student has an interview). But what you will continue to find is grit, resilience, loyalty and camaraderie. The months since early 2020 have challenged all of us — personally and professionally. When I or Darden faculty and staff have connected with many of you, we have heard the same comments repeatedly. Wow. Darden is resilient and responsive to these challenges.

You — the alumni network — exemplify the traits that define our response, and I would expect nothing less. Alumni of the 2008 and 2009 classes have met with the classes of 2020 and 2021 to provide insights and advice about entering the workforce in an economic crisis, and alumnae have participated in community-building Zoom chats with Graduate Women in Business students. International alumni have had career conversations with students returning to their home countries, and Black alumni and students have engaged in conversations about how to strengthen networking opportunities. You’ve hired students, referred prospective students, shared leads for Executive Education & Lifelong Learning, and you have generously supported the Darden Annual Fund, which enables us to deliver on Darden’s greatest needs. As Dean Scott Beardsley has said countless times, we must always work closely to help Darden reach its full potential.

Darden is not only strong, it is thriving, because of alumni, parents and friends like you.

Michael J. Woodfolk (TEP ’05) President, Darden School Foundation

WHAT CAN DARDEN DO FOR YOU Today?

Darden powers your purpose for more than just two years on Grounds. Through Alumni Career Services, we support your career for life.

• Career/Transition Coaching • Executive/Leadership Coaching • Darden Hiring Network • Darden Career Link • In-Person Office Hours

e Armstrong Center for Alumni Career Services