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Celebrate the inspiring stories of ten local changemakers who are shaping Central Virginia through innovation, community building, and transformative contributions.
Foxfield
Foxfield’s new owners and the chair of Foxfield Races discuss their plans to preserve the iconic property and enhance the beloved steeplechase races.
Flowering Through Time
Virginia’s horticultural heritage is on full display during Historic Garden Week, a weeklong event offering exclusive tours of more than 120 private gardens and homes.
Home Office Trends
Explore the ways that home offices are being reimagined with multifunctional designs, playful details, and seamless connectivity for productivity and comfort.
Megan Ames
58 Sports
Almost overnight, the nation’s premier pickleball program has risen at the University of Virginia.
60 Stage Life
Big Head Todd and the Monsters are just one highlight of a full slate of performances around the area.
63 Life of the Party Ringing in the New Year at Veritas Vineyards, and the Grand Cuckoo at Common House.
10 Local Life
ON THE COVER
The honorees in our first “Albemarle Ten” group have all been local difference-makers.
Photos by Ahna See
A jazz legend’s next chapter, new schools, Biscuit Run Park, and the tragic loss of a healthcare champion.
16 Art Life
New exhibitions, including Ana Rendich and Sanda Iliescu, Cassie Guy and Kirsten Hemrich, and more.
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Photo Creations
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Life Local JOHN D’EARTH’S ENCORE
After more than 40 years shaping the University of Virginia’s jazz program, John D’Earth retired as Director of Jazz Performance in January 2025. Renowned for his talents as a trumpeter, composer, and educator, D’Earth’s final concert with the University Jazz Ensemble last November was aptly titled New Beginnings. The performance marked the end of an era for UVA’s jazz program and celebrated a career that has influenced countless students and musicians.
But for D’Earth, retirement is anything but a farewell. He plans to remain an active presence in the music world, continuing to perform with his quintet, which includes J.C. Kuhl (tenor saxophone), Daniel Clarke (piano), Peter Spaar (bass), and Devonne Harris (drums). He also plans to continue his long-running residency at Miller’s on Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall. His passion for keeping music alive in his community echoes the philosophy that guided his academic career: music, like jazz itself, thrives in connection and collaboration.
While a mainstay of the local music scene, D’Earth’s influence extends well beyond Central Virginia. A co-founder of the influential band Cosmology, he has performed with icons like Miles Davis and Dave Matthews Band, and was awarded the 2024 Jazz Hero award from the Jazz Journalists Association.
Looking ahead, D’Earth plans to dedicate more time to composing, learning to play drums, and even exploring his desire to sing in public. Inspired by the success of his latest album, Coin of the Realm, he’s also considering recording more music.
Matt Riley/UVA
NEW SCHOOLS ON THE WAY
To address an increasing student population, Albemarle County is building its first new elementary school in 20 years. Scheduled to open for the 2026-27 school year, the school will accommodate grades three through five, while nearby Mountain View Elementary will serve pre-K through second grade. The new school has a projected cost of $38.4 million and will have a capacity of 500 students.
This is part of a broader plan that includes a new school facility tied to Albemarle High School and another elementary school by 2028, aiming to accommodate the projected 14,500 students ACPS expects to serve by 2034—about 1,000 more than current enrollment.
Nestled in a private neighborhood within easy reach of Rt. 29, Branchlands’ location offers the best of both worlds: a beautiful natural setting for morning strolls and ready access to shopping and entertainment. Chauffeured transportation and frequent outings allow residents to take advantage of all that Charlottesville has to offer.
Local Life
URBAN OASIS
Biscuit Run—Albemarle County’s newest and largest park—has officially opened to the public. The eastern park entrance, accessible from Route 20 (2020 Scottsville Road), includes a trailhead with 75 parking spaces and restrooms, and 8.5 miles of signed, maintained trails. At 1,190 acres, the almost entirely forested Biscuit Run Park contains extensive natural areas, abundant water resources, and scenic landscapes—all close to Charlottesville and Albemarle County’s development area. Its location between Interstate 64, Avon Street, and Old Lynchburg Road creates convenient opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Because of the park’s large size, it will be developed in multiple phases over many years. This year, several more miles of new multi-use trails are being built, along with a new bike-only area featuring mountain biking amenities like progressive jump lines, dual slaloms, skinnies, drops, and more. Two natural-grass athletic fields are also planned for future development.
Tim
Padalino, AICP/ACPR
Foothills Loop trail at Biscuit Run Park
REMEMBERING MEGHAN HINGER
A LIFE OF LEADERSHIP AND COMPASSION
Meghan Hinger, CEO of Clinical Operations at the Charlottesville Free Clinic, died unexpectedly in January, at the age of 39. Hinger’s nine-year tenure at the Free Clinic was marked by transformative leadership and an unwavering commitment to equitable healthcare in the Charlottesville community.
During her time as CEO, the Free Clinic experienced significant growth, providing more than 7,500 patient visits in the past year alone. For the past 33 years, the Charlottesville Free Clinic has provided free medical and dental care to thousands of working adults who lack insurance or face prohibitive deductibles.
Hinger’s unwavering passion for caring for individuals, regardless of their ability to pay, was the driving force behind her work at the Free Clinic. In 2020, she stepped into the role of interim executive director, guiding the clinic through a challenging relocation during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring its doors remained open when the community needed it most. In 2024, she spearheaded the creation of a new dental clinic, expanding critical access to dental care for uninsured and underinsured residents in the area.
Recognized as a Trailblazer by the Virginia Nurses Foundation’s “40 Under 40,” Hinger was celebrated for her empathy and vision. “Meghan was the heart of the Free Clinic and devoted her life to serving the underserved in our community,” says Dr. Will Knight, chairman of the Charlottesville Free Clinic. “Her contributions to our community will reverberate forever—the love and care our patients felt from the clinic has changed their lives for the better, as well as those around them.”
Meghan Hinger
Hinger made an profound impact on the healthcare landscape in the greater Charlottesville area. She, along with Free Clinic staff and volunteers, gathered for a recent annual report photo.
Art Life
LES YEUX DU MONDE
841 Wolf Trap Road, Charlottesville 434-882-2622 · lydmgallery.com
SANDA ILIESCU: SUMMER SONGS ANA RENDICH: TRACING HOPE
February 15 - March 23
Sanda Iliescu’s Summer Songs, painted in 2024, celebrate color, movement, and the ephemeral beauty of nature. Using watercolor and gouache, Iliescu creates lyrical rhythms and patterns that evoke joy and wonder. “Together, white field and brush marks compose a visual song,” Iliescu writes, “a melody that might suggest a lullaby, or mazurka, or sonata.” Her vibrant marks and forms, hinting at figures like the sun or moon, invite viewers to immerse themselves in bold strokes and quiet contemplation. Born in Romania, Iliescu earned architecture degrees from Princeton and is a professor at the University of Virginia. A Rome Prize and McDowell Fellowship recipient, she has exhibited internationally and authored The Hand and the Soul and Experiencing Art and Architecture
Ana Rendich’s new 3-D works showcase her mastery of color, materiality, and spatial relationships, blending aesthetic beauty with meditations on space, connection, and shared humanity. In Tracing Hop e, she ties her colorful 3-D pieces to a large geometric canvas and mixed media works, incorporating Japanese papers and collaged storybook elements. These pieces explore diverse perspectives and our common humanity. “I see Hope as bone marrow for Aliveness,” Rendich writes, emphasizing healing, belonging, and creating safe spaces. Born in Buenos Aires, Rendich studied Scenic and Costume Design at top institutions and has exhibited her work internationally, including at Lincoln Center, the Phillips Collection, the Butler Institute of American Art, and the Siena Art Institute.
Ana Rendich, A Sense of Belonging, 2025. Mixed media, 27 x 30 x 2"
Sanda Iliescu, Summer Song, 2024. watercolor on paper, 11 x 12"
Ana Rendich, Rumors, 2025. Oil on canvas, 48" in diameter
Builder: Ilex Construction
Art Life
SECOND STREET GALLERY
115 Second Street SE, Charlottesville 434-977-7284 • secondstreetgallery.com
KIRSTEN HEMRICH: SIGNS OF LIFE
February 7 - March 21 (Dové Gallery)
Kirsten Hemrich is an artist and curator based in New York and Richmond. A graduate of the University of Virginia, she earned degrees in studio art and poetry writing in 2018, followed by an Aunspaugh Fellowship to continue developing her creative practice as a postgraduate. Hemrich’s solo exhibition in Second Street Gallery’s Dové Gallery space will feature a selection of paintings and drawings that reflect a visual symbolism of grief, change, and the cyclic nature of time. Her work is inspired by the poetry and humor of all things.
CASSIE GUY: LIMINAL
February 7 - March 21 (Main Gallery)
Cassie Guy is a mixed media artist based in Charlottesville. Her current work comprises both figurative and abstract works on wood panels. Her mixed media palette includes gouache, oil crayons and paints, house paints, paper cutouts, pen, ink, dye, pencils, markers and recycled materials including her own rejected artworks or scraps. Guy’s exhibition in the Main Gallery will feature a collection of new work, including large-scale paintings by the artist. She reinterprets her dreamlike subjects in a contemporary fashion utilizing classic motifs such as still life and interiors.
TOP LEFT: Kirsten Hemrich, Breath of Daffodil, 2025, oil and oil stick on canvas, 40 x 36 inches
BOTTOM LEFT: Cassie Guy, Taurus, 2024, mixed media on wood, 84 x 80 inches
This exhibition showcases prints created by Jacob Lawrence (1917–2000) between 1983 and 2000, highlighting the work of one of the 20th century’s most significant artists and one of the first nationally recognized Black artists in U.S. history. Drawing from history and personal experience, Lawrence’s prints and paintings reflect themes of resilience, struggle, and everyday life.
The nationally touring exhibition, Jacob Lawrence: Three Series of Prints, features the Hiroshima Series, Genesis Series, 10 prints from the Toussaint L’Ouverture Series, and five additional key works. The Genesis Series evokes Lawrence’s childhood memories of Sunday school, the Toussaint L’Ouverture Series recounts the Haitian Revolution, and the Hiroshima Series depicts moments surrounding the atomic bombing.
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General Touissant L’Ouverture, 1986, Silk screen print on Bainbridge Two Ply Rag, Jacob Lawrence (1917–2000)
CARRIAGE WORKS STUDIOS AT PHAETON GALLERY
114 Old Preston Avenue, Charlottesville phaetongallery.com
ANNUAL GROUP SHOW
February 7–16
Carriage Works Studios hosts its annual group show, a dynamic celebration of creativity featuring original paintings, etchings, and ceramics. This year’s show highlights an array of affordable, one-of-a-kind pieces. Visitors can discover works by talented resident artists and special guest artists, showcasing diverse styles, media, and themes for every taste and space.
Carriage Works Studios Artists:
Sue Frazier
Pattie Frischkorn
Eileen Park
Juli Perdue
Gincy Plummer
Put Spaulding
David Waters
Special Guest Artists:
Anna Bryant
Susan Cary
Jane Goodman
Sharon Lee
Suzanne Loechl
Tim Michel
Linda Winecoff
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: David Waters
After more than 50 years of distinguished teaching at the University of Virginia and practicing privately, David Waters, PhD, has retired to focus on his passion for painting. Since joining the Carriage Works Studio Artists two years ago, Waters has honed his craft and developed his unique style.
Drawing inspiration from Tonalism, a late 19th-century American art movement, Waters has deepened his artistic exploration through workshops and private instruction. His dedication shines in his upcoming exhibition, featuring over 20 new works that capture his evolving exploration of light, atmosphere, and tonal contrasts, showcased alongside six other CWS in-house artists.
TOP RIGHT: A small oil painting by Waters
BOTTOM RIGHT: David Waters at the easel
JOAN MITCHELL: UNCOVERING 100 YEARS
February 1 - July 20
How do artworks evolve over time? Colors fade, pigments shift, and surfaces collect dirt. Museums must decide whether to restore an artwork or preserve its aged character. In honor of Joan Mitchell’s 100th birthday, museums nationwide are showcasing her work to celebrate her influence. Mitchell (1925–1992) was a prolific Abstract Expressionist who thrived in a male-dominated art world.
In 2023, Scott W. Nolley, Head Conservator at the Smithsonian’s Hirshhorn Museum, restored two Mitchell paintings from The Fralin Museum’s collection. The process, performed live at the museum, offered visitors a glimpse into art conservation. This exhibition explores Mitchell’s art and how conservation shapes our perception of it.
Miller School of Albemarle, founded in 1878, is actively preparing for its 150th Sesquicentennial anniversary through student-led planning efforts. As a community resource dedicated to providing hands-on experiential learning on its 1,100-acre campus, the school celebrates the outstanding contributions of the Rivanna, Albemarle, and Charlottesville Garden Clubs. Miller School recognizes them for their dedication to historic preservation, environmental education, and sustainability.
It is an honor for Miller School students and its sustainable agriculture program to partner with them as a venue for the 2025 Historic Garden Week in Albemarle County on April 27, 2025.
Garden Club of Virginia
Jim Faulconer
434.981.0076 jfaulconer@mcleanfaulconer.com
EDGEMONT
BENTIVAR
MANOR
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$15,000,000 | MLS 576150 | North Garden, VA Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700 FIELDS OF BOAZ
Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455
Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455
BROAD AXE RD
$1,899,000 | MLS 659462 | Charlottesville, VA Jeremy Fields, 434.270.1220
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HATTON BLUFF
$1,395,000 | MLS658709 | Scottsville, VA
Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076
Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455
$1,195,000 | MLS 653080 | Staunton, VA Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700
Jim Faulconer
434.981.0076
jfaulconer@mcleanfaulconer.com
FARMINGTON
$5,795,000 | MLS 650584 | Charlottesville, VA
Tim Michel, 434.960.1124
Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700
SPOTTSWOOD
$2,900,000 | MLS 658170 | Charlottesville, VA
Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250
Court Nexsen
646.660.0700
court@mcleanfaulconer.com
OLD KESWICK
MLS 659320 | Keswick, VA
Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250
Extraordinary estate with 547+/- acres including a circa 1745 & 1832 residence, numerous dependencies and stables provide a unique, private domain in a premier location near Charlottesville and the University of Virginia.
CREOCH
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Katherine Leddington, 646.593.0333 BELMONT
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Mark Mascotte, 434.825.8610
Architecture & Interior Design: Purple Cherry Architects Photographer: Darren Setlow
The 10
In every community, there are individuals who shape the world around them, leaving lasting marks on the lives they touch. Here, we celebrate ten local changemakers who are transforming Central Virginia with their passion, creativity, and tireless work. Through their stories, we hope to inspire a renewed sense of possibility and a deeper appreciation for those who are making a meaningful difference every day.
Ridge SchuyleR
Connecting Lives with Livelihoods
“The gap between people and opportunity isn’t as wide as it seems—it just takes the right bridge,” says Ridge Schuyler, the founder and CEO of Network2Work USA and Dean of Community Self-Sufficiency Programs at Piedmont Virginia Community College. Schuyler is building that bridge with a program that is lifting families out of poverty.
Schuyler’s epiphany came when he was district director for Congressman Tom Perriello during the 2008 recession. “People would come into our office saying, ‘I just need a damn job,’” he recalls. Yet in the Charlottesville area, opportunities seemed out of reach for those most in need. Determined to better understand local economic challenges, Schuyler co-authored the Orange Dot Report, revealing that nearly 30% of local families struggled to meet basic needs. This work laid the foundation for Network2Work. Now housed at PVCC, Network2Work offers training and support to job seekers while connecting them with employers ready to hire. The secret lies in the network’s “Connectors,” a model inspired by the Obama campaign’s grassroots strategy. “If you can use well-connected people in neighborhoods to talk about something as abstract as an election, why not use the same method to talk about something as tangible as a job?,” he says.
Under Schuyler’s leadership, Network2Work has expanded to other community colleges and achieved remarkable results, including a 107% average wage increase for participants. Some of Schuyler’s motivation is rooted in his own upbringing, watching his single mother face discrimination in the job market. “At the end of the day, people just want to raise their families in decent conditions. If we can help them get there, that’s what matters.”
Kamisha Spencer Quiet Excellence
Kamisha Spencer thrives in the background, quietly transforming lives without seeking recognition. “I’ll do the work,” she says. “Just don’t put me in the spotlight.” But after two decades with Charlottesville’s Department of Human Services, her work speaks for itself—shaping programs, fostering connections, and changing the trajectory for families and youth in her community.
As program supervisor, Spencer oversees a range of initiatives designed to empower families and reduce youth interactions with the justice system. Among them is the Parent Advocacy program and the recently launched Youth Lead program, created in partnership with the Charlottesville Police Department, which diverts first-time juvenile offenders away from court and into community-based services. “It’s about meeting families where they are,” Spencer says. “What do you need today to survive and thrive tomorrow? That’s the question we always ask.”
A Charlottesville native and once a teen mother herself, she understands the struggles faced by many of the families she serves. “I had a strong village growing up,” she says. “But not everyone has that, and for me, this work is about building that kind of support for others.”
Her team is central to these efforts. “They’re extraordinary,” Spencer says. “Everyone brings something unique—whether it’s deep community connections or innovative ideas. We’re not just colleagues, we’re a family.”
Many of the most gratifying moments for Spencer and her team are the quiet, small victories. “When a kid who was disengaged starts calling us, or an adult I worked with years ago comes back to say, ‘I didn’t get it then, but I do now.’ That’s when you know you’ve made a difference.”
Kari Anderson Miller Good Neighbors
In 2015, Kari Anderson Miller stood at a crossroads in her career as an educator. After nearly two decades of teaching primarily in Charlottesville, her role as an ESL teacher at Greenbrier Elementary exposed her to a stark reality: the widening gap between refugee students and their peers. “These kids were navigating a whole new world—different languages, unfamiliar systems—and they were doing it largely on their own,” she recalls. That experience, combined with her years as a Peace Corps volunteer in Thailand, inspired Miller to found International Neighbors, a nonprofit that has since become a lifeline for thousands of refugees in Charlottesville, offering them mentorship, guidance, and essential resources. Miller says that her time in the Peace Corps was profoundly formative. “I was the only American in a small village, and I remember how isolating it was. But my neighbors welcomed me—they taught me how to live there. That empathy stayed with me and shaped my approach to helping others.”
With International Neighbors, she set out to replicate that sense of support. “Our mission is simple: connect refugee and immigrant families with the resources and support of the local Charlottesville community,” she says. “Refugees bring resilience and courage, but the challenges here—language barriers, housing costs, cultural isolation—are staggering. The solution is often people power.”
Nearly a decade later, Miller remains as committed as ever. “What gives me hope is that these obstacles are solvable. These families come here with the dream of thriving, not just surviving. And every small connection—a soccer game, a shared meal—moves us closer to a community where everyone belongs and feels valued.”
Martize Tolbert
Hope and Redemption
By the time Martize Tolbert walked into the Fountain Fund’s office in 2017, he had endured a lifetime’s worth of challenges. Fresh out of prison after serving time for drug convictions, he found himself navigating a labyrinth of financial and systemic barriers. Driven by a promise to his late mother to never return to the streets, Tolbert was determined to chart a new course. “I knew I didn’t want to go back,” he says. “The Fountain Fund gave me that first step—a loan to pay court costs so I could get my driver's license.”
Today, Tolbert is the National Director of Client and Community Engagement for the very organization that gave him a second chance. He describes the Fountain Fund as “a bank with a heart,” offering low-interest loans to formerly incarcerated people, financial literacy coaching, and, above all, hope. “My mentor taught me that to keep what I have, I’ve got to give it away,” he says.
The work is personal for Tolbert. “When I came home, I didn’t see anyone across the desk who looked like me, who understood where I was coming from,” he says. “Now, I can be that person for someone else.”
Beyond his work at the Fountain Fund, he spearheads initiatives like the One-Stop Shop, a program designed to connect formerly incarcerated individuals with a network of resources, from housing to employment opportunities. He also mentors a growing list of clients, conducting personalized assessments to map their goals and challenges.
His work is about more than redemption—it’s about legacy. “People counted me out,” he says. “Now, I’m showing them what’s possible. Your past doesn’t define your future.”
Dr. Neal Kassell Breaking the Sound Barrier
When Dr. Neal Kassell first envisioned a future for focused ultrasound two decades ago, it was just that—a vision. Today, that vision has materialized into a transformative medical technology with the potential to reshape healthcare. “It’s not just about treating diseases,” Kassell says. “It’s about redefining what’s possible for patients.”
Focused ultrasound is a non-invasive technology that uses precisely targeted ultrasonic energy to treat tissue deep within the body without incisions, radiation, or damage to surrounding areas. Kassell, a neurosurgeon turned innovator, is the founder and chairman of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. The organization’s mission, he explains, is simple: “To accelerate the development and adoption of the technology. Saving time means saving lives.”
Focused ultrasound has already made waves in treating essential tremor, a neurological disorder that affects millions. “We took it from an idea—a glimmer of hope— to a treatment that has transformed the lives of over 20,000 patients,” Kassell says. “For these individuals, many of whom had been struggling with debilitating tremors for years, the results are nothing short of miraculous. Patients go into the machine unable to write their name or hold a cup of coffee, and within hours, they walk out with their lives restored. It’s a privilege to witness that kind of impact.”
The technology’s versatility astounds even Kassell. With more than 180 clinical indications in various stages of development, it is being explored for treating everything from Alzheimer’s to cancer. As focused ultrasound gains traction, Kassell’s vision feels increasingly within reach. “We’re not just improving lives,” he says. “We’re redefining what’s possible in medicine.”
Liza Borches Driven by Values
Liza Borches is proving that success in the automotive industry isn’t just about selling cars—it’s also about driving positive change. As the fourth-generation leader of Carter Myers Automotive, she has significantly expanded the company’s footprint while staying true to its mission of putting people and communities first.
“We get to impact more lives than almost any other industry,” Borches says. “People need transportation to get where they are going in life.” Under her leadership, CMA’s mission is guided by three core values: People First, Everyone Wins, and Never Straight, Always Forward. These values are more than slogans—they are, as Borches puts it, “the foundation for how we treat each other, serve our customers, and support our communities.”
This philosophy fuels CMA’s innovative initiatives, including Driving Lives Forward, a program designed to overcome transportation barriers for families striving for selfsufficiency. The initiative partners with local nonprofits to identify individuals who need reliable vehicles to maintain jobs, access childcare, or pursue education. CMA facilitates affordable loans, donations, and vehicle repairs to empower participants and build their financial independence.
She’s also launched a leadership program for women in the male-dominated automotive industry, creating pathways for advancement and breaking down long-standing barriers. “True innovation starts with investing in people,” Borches says. “When we empower women to lead, we strengthen not just our company but the entire industry.”
Additionally, as the co-founder of Women United in Philanthropy, Borches has brought women together to combine their resources and drive transformative initiatives that support women and children. “Everyone wants to know their giving matters,” she says. “This organization proves that when many contributions of all size are united together, we can create significant and lasting change.”
Lauren Riegl
Beyond Bikes
Lauren Riegl, the executive director of Charlottesville Community Bikes, sees bicycles as much more than a mode of transportation. They’re a lifeline, a tool for empowerment, and a way to build a more equitable Charlottesville.
Her journey to leading the nonprofit began unexpectedly during the pandemic, when she took a temporary position at CCB after stepping away from a teaching career. “I thought it’d be a short-term thing,” she says, reflecting on her initial role. “But I fell in love with the mission and the people. It became clear this was where I could make the biggest difference.”
Under Riegl’s leadership, CCB has expanded its impact, distributing more 1,600 bikes in 2024 alone. The organization provides free bikes and repair services to underserved communities while also selling refurbished bikes at their Preston Avenue shop to help sustain their programs. “A bike can be life-changing,” she says. “It’s freedom, it’s mobility, it’s opportunity—especially for someone without other means of transportation.”
Since becoming executive director in 2021, Riegl has spearheaded several initiatives, including mobile bike clinics that bring repair services directly to communities. She also launched a youth mountain biking program in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club and a workforce development program teaching teens bike mechanics and soft skills.
Riegl is quick to credit her team for the organization’s expanded reach. “I always call the staff unicorns, because you have to be part social worker, part bike mechanic, and it's hard to find that in one person,” she says of CCB’s four full-time staff and dedicated volunteers. “The real magic happens because of their hard work.”
Chad Ratliff
Classroom Revolutionary
What if school weren’t just about grades, tests, and rigid schedules? At Community Lab School, Chad Ratliff is turning that question into a revolutionary reality. The school’s principal since 2017, Ratliff is leading the charge in designing a model that prioritizes projectbased, interdisciplinary, and experiential learning.
“We’re not interested in doing school the way it’s always been done,” Ratliff says. “What we’re trying to prove is that you don’t have to sacrifice rigor to build an environment where students love to learn.”
Ratliff’s vision for the school stems from his conviction that the middle school years, often seen as a transitional holding period, can instead be a time of profound growth. “This is the second most critical developmental stage in a person’s life, after birth to age three,” he explains. “Traditional models often strip away choice and agency—exactly what early adolescents need to thrive.”
Students work on interdisciplinary projects that connect math, science, and humanities to real-world challenges—a learning environment that could inform schools far beyond Albemarle County. Students track their progress through portfolios rather than just numeric grades, building confidence and independence. “We aim to teach students not just content, but how to learn, collaborate, and explore their intellectual curiosities,” Ratliff says.
Community Lab School is beginning to implement a very similar approach in grades 9-12 and is already seeing positive results. While this innovative approach is bolstered by research partnerships with institutions like UVA and Stanford, Ratliff also credits much of the school’s success to its teachers. “This whole model is built on trust and teacher leadership,” he says. “My role is to create the conditions for them to thrive.”
Lo Davis Rewriting the Playbook
For Lo Davis, the world of name, image, and likeness (NIL) isn’t just about branding and endorsements—it’s about building character, fostering connections, and preparing student-athletes for life after sports. As executive director of Cav Futures and the Cav Futures Foundation, Davis has dedicated himself to ensuring UVA student-athletes thrive in the community as much as they do on the field.
Founded to navigate the complex NIL terrain that has transformed college sports, Cav Futures and its affiliated foundation have a broader mission: to holistically support student-athletes in the areas of education, community engagement, and career development. Davis sees this mission as transformative. “We wanted NIL to be part of what we offer, but not the first box to check,” he explains. “Our focus is on long-term development—helping our students understand who they are beyond the sport.”
The Cav Futures Foundation epitomizes the organization’s commitment to supporting current Cavaliers in making a meaningful difference. Its flagship “Champions of the Community” grant program, funded by donors like UVA baseball alumnus Joe Weinberg, teaches students the principles of philanthropy and grant-making. In 2024, the program awarded more than $130,000 to 13 local nonprofits. “We want student-athletes to understand the community they’re a part of. We want them to be truly invested in the people and organizations around them,” Davis says. “It’s about creating genuine connections and lasting impact.”
Davis’s vision for Cav Futures is ambitious. “We’re showing that student-athletes can use their platform for good,” he says. It’s not just about thriving in a new era of college athletics, Davis explains—it’s about doing it “the right way.”
Flannery Buchanan
Where the Bluebird Sings
When Flannery Buchanan partnered with Chelsea Powers to open Bluebird & Company in Crozet, it became much more than a shop for books and boutique clothing. Buchanan, a former librarian and mother of four, says that the store is an extension of her personal mission: fostering community, celebrating creativity, and cultivating a space where everyone can feel valued and supported. What began as two separate ventures—Buchanan’s Bluebird Book Stop and Powers’ Fancy & Nell— evolved into a shared retail space showcasing books, clothing, and a curated selection of women-made goods. “Crozet is full of incredibly talented people, and it’s a joy to give them a platform,” Buchanan says. “When you walk into the shop, you’re seeing the heart of our community on display.”
Above all, the vibe at Blubird celebrates individuality. “So many people feel like they don’t quite fit, and I wanted this to be a place where everyone belongs— whether they’re picking up a book, attending an event, or just finding a moment of connection. We wanted to create a place where people feel seen and maybe leave a little happier,” she says.
To that end, Bluebird hosts events for local authors and provides meeting space for book clubs and support groups for parents of neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ children. “We have to have spaces where parents can share honestly—where they know they’re supported no matter what."
Buchanan and Powers also organize events like the Crozet Holiday Market Crawl and the Crozet Book Festival. “We love creating events that bring vibrancy to our town, support local artisans, and remind everyone of the magic of small business,” Buchanan says.
The FUTURE
Photography by Camden Littleton
Not long ago, the fate of the Foxfield Races hung in the balance. In 2016, plans were being considered to subdivide the land and build houses. However, a 2019 conservation easement protected the 167-acre property from development. Last year, the Cassiopeia Foundation purchased Foxfield, further securing its future as a steeplechase venue and honoring the vision of Mariann de Tejeda, who founded the racecourse in 1977.
Under the stewardship of Foxfield Racing LLC, the property has become a model for modern steeplechase racing, blending tradition with innovation. With the support of the Cassiopeia Foundation, Foxfield Racing is poised to sustain its legacy of excellence and expand its impact.
In the Q&A that follows, Zach and Sara Miller of The Cassiopeia Foundation and Dr. Reynolds Cowles of Foxfield Racing share their insights on the acquisition, future plans, and how the community can contribute to Foxfield’s evolving story.
CASSIOPEIA FOUNDATION
Zach and Sara Miller have deep ties to the equestrian world, operating a thoroughbred development business at nearby Timbercreek Farm. Their passion for horses and their community shapes their vision for Foxfield.
Zach & Sara Miller
of FOXFIELD
Can you talk about Cassiopeia Foundation’s history and its contributions to land conservation and environmental preservation?
Zach Miller: The Cassiopeia Foundation was established in 1944 by my greatgrandfather, W. Alton Jones, and has always been deeply committed to conservation and environmental stewardship.
One of our earliest efforts was donating 2,800 acres in Rhode Island to the University of Rhode Island, creating a center for agriculture and conservation. Later, under my grandmother’s leadership, we focused on protecting biodiversity in the Amazon and Southeast Asia, helping preserve millions of acres as these regions faced rapid development.
Closer to home, we’ve supported organizations like the Piedmont Environmental Council to protect open spaces. Foxfield is especially meaningful to us as our first direct stewardship project, and we’re excited to work with a property that holds such ecological and cultural importance for the community.
Why did the foundation purchase the Foxfield property, and how does the purchase align with the foundation’s broader mission and values?
Zach: Foxfield is such a special part of Albemarle County, and we immediately felt a strong responsibility to help ensure its future. While this wasn’t the type of project we initially envisioned for the foundation, it fits beautifully with our mission of innovation and leadership in philanthropy. This was a chance to protect not only the land but also its rich equestrian and community traditions.
We recognized that Foxfield needed longterm stability and thoughtful stewardship to truly thrive. By stepping into this role, we hope to honor its history while helping it flourish for future generations.
Sara Miller: Foxfield is incredibly personal to us—it’s where Zach and I met during a steeplechase race back in 2005. Living and working right next door with our thoroughbreds has deepened our connection to this property and its legacy over the years. So, when the president of the Foxfield Racing board approached
us about purchasing the property, we saw it as a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community and help preserve something that means so much to Albemarle County.
What steps are being taken to ensure the preservation of Foxfield’s history and legacy for future generations?
Zach: With the property now under our foundation’s endowment, we can ensure its long-term stability and protection. The land’s permanent conservation is a testament to earlier efforts, and we’re thrilled to build on that foundation by focusing on Foxfield’s equestrian legacy.
We’re working closely with Foxfield Racing to enhance their programs in ways that invite greater community involvement and inclusivity. Preserving the rich equestrian history and the timeless spirit of the races is at the heart of everything we do—it’s what makes Foxfield so special.
What are the immediate and long-term goals for the Foxfield property?
Sara: In the short term, we’re focused on supporting Foxfield Racing as they continue hosting the spring and fall steeplechase races. These events have been bringing people together for decades, and we want to ensure they remain cherished traditions for years to come.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the possibility of expanding how the property is used—welcoming more equestrian activities and creating new opportunities for community engagement. At the same time, we’re mindful of maintaining the balance and character of the surrounding area. Supporting Albemarle’s equestrian economy is particularly important to us, and we see Foxfield as playing a key role in that.
Both of you are involved in raising, training, and racing horses. How does your connection to the equestrian world influence your overall approach?
Sara: Horses are central to our lives. I run a thoroughbred nursery and pinhooking program, and I’ve been lucky to work with some of the most talented trainers
and veterinarians in the equestrian world. That experience has shaped our vision for Foxfield as a thriving hub for equestrian activities.
We feel a deep connection to the horse community and are passionate about creating more opportunities for equestrians in Albemarle County. Facilities like Foxfield play such a vital role in supporting both the current and future generations of horse enthusiasts, and we’re honored to be part of that journey.
Zach: Our lifelong involvement in the equestrian world gives us a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the industry. From steeplechase racing to breeding and training horses, we’ve been fortunate to experience many facets of this community, and that experience is helping us approach Foxfield with both care and purpose.
With the growing support for Virginia’s horse industry at the state level, it feels like a particularly exciting time to contribute to this revitalization. By blending our passion for horses with the resources of our foundation, we’re committed to ensuring Foxfield remains a cornerstone
of Albemarle’s equestrian culture for generations to come.
How can the community contribute to preserving and using the property?
Zach: The best way the community can help is by showing up—attending events, enjoying the races, and providing feedback. By participating, people can help shape Foxfield into an even more vibrant and inclusive space. Community input is vital to ensuring the property meets the needs and desires of those it serves.
Sara: Being good neighbors is a top priority for us. As we explore exciting new ways to open the property to the community, we’re committed to preserving the tranquility and unique character of the surrounding area. We’re committed to listening and learning from the community to ensure this property continues to serve the people who love it most.
Events like the Women’s Four Miler and JackFest show just how much Foxfield can serve as a force for good in our local community. We’re eager to build on this foundation and create even more opportunities to bring people together.
ABOVE: Zach Miller, number 4, aboard Post War. RIGHT: Jockey Virginia Korrell up on Eye of Gunfighter at the 2023 Foxfield Fall Races.
FOXFIELD RACING
Dr. Reynolds Cowles is a prominent figure in equine veterinary medicine and the steeplechase racing community. He is chairman of Foxfield Racing LLC and for many years has been instrumental in preserving the racecourse.
Foxfield Racing LLC’s mission is “conservation of open space and our countryside, celebrating the traditions of Virginia steeplechase racing and using these functions to support benevolence in our community.” How does the sale of Foxfield to Cassiopeia Foundation allow you to better achieve each of the three aspects of its mission?
Dr. Reynolds Cowles: The easement on the property, put in place by the previous owner, Tom Dick, has been the cornerstone of preserving this beautiful land. It’s reassuring to know that this vital conservation effort will remain unchanged as we move forward.
Foxfield is guided by a Board of Governors who care deeply about the property and its future. Together, we use the timeless tradition of steeplechase races to create memorable experiences for the community— celebrating the thrill of the sport, the beauty of the horses, and the camaraderie of the day—all while giving back to meaningful charitable causes.
One of Foxfield’s strategic initiatives is establishing the races as a premier event in the National Steeplechase Association. What innovations and improvements can we expect to see in future Foxfield Races?
Reynolds: Over the past five years, we’ve worked hard to make Foxfield Racing a premier event by investing in improvements that prioritize safety for the horses and riders. With support from the Cassiopeia Foundation, we upgraded the turf course with a modern irrigation system, ensuring it’s safer and more reliable for horses and riders.
We’ve also added a new barn for racing horses, thanks to a grant from the Virginia Equine Alliance. Our growing purse structure, supported by sponsors, local supporters, and the Alliance, has helped us attract some of the top horses and owners in the sport.
This year, we’re excited to rebuild our timber racing course to further improve safety and create a safe and welcoming environment for young horses. We will also need to replace the race tower soon. It has served well but is aging, and that will require a major fundraising campaign.
Dr. Reynolds Cowles
What are some of the ways that Foxfield plans to use the property to benefit the wider community?
Reynolds: Our races proudly support Habitat for Humanity and Camp Holiday Trails, two incredible organizations that make a real difference in our community. Since 2001, we’ve been able to contribute over $400,000 to their missions, which aligns nicely with the vision of Foxfield’s founder, Mariann de Tejeda
Beyond the horse races, we have teamed up with the Charlottesville Track Club and local volunteers to host community events like the Women’s Four Miler, benefiting the UVA Cancer Center, the Bill Steers Four Miler for prostate cancer research, and JackFest, a fun, family-friendly day supporting the Ronald McDonald House and UVA’s pediatric cancer research.
We’ve developed a long-term property plan to enhance the race day experience, improve safety, and increase public access, all while ensuring environmental stewardship. Foxfield is a place where the community can come together, and we’re excited to keep building on that.
How is Foxfield working to expand sponsorship opportunities and partnerships with nonprofit organizations?
Reynolds: We’re excited to partner with the local 4-H Hoof and Woof program, which has become a wonderful part of our race day activities. At our fall family races, we host a fun program for kids from the Habitat Southwood neighborhood, introducing them to horses and ponies and their care. It’s been a big success, and 4-H is now leading the charge to grow this initiative.
We’re also exploring new partnerships with other groups to make race days even more inclusive and supportive of community organizations.
What do you consider the most important aspects of Foxfield equestrian heritage that should be preserved for future generations?
Reynolds: Steeplechase racing has always been at the heart of Foxfield, and we’re committed to preserving and celebrating this tradition for generations to come. Even before Mrs. de Tejeda built the racecourse, the property held a special place in the local equestrian community, and her vision to dedicate it to the people of Albemarle County inspires much of what we do today.
As we look to the future, we’re exploring additional equestrian activities that align with the conservation easement and enrich the property’s role in the community. It’s important to us that Foxfield remains a welcoming, vibrant space where people can connect with horses, nature, and each other.
MIDDLE: The picturesque, 167-acre property is a true local
BOTTOM: The Spring and Fall Foxfield Races are among Virginia's most popular equestrian—and social—events.
TOP: Foxfield founder Mariann de Tejeda in 1980 with then race director Raymie Woolfe.
treasure.
Rosanne Berkenstock/NSA Archives
Historic Garden Week in Virginia Flowering Through Time
Every spring, Virginia bursts into bloom with Historic Garden Week, a weeklong celebration of the state’s rich horticultural heritage. Organized by the Garden Club of Virginia, the event offers an exclusive glimpse into more than 120 private homes and gardens, spread across 29 distinct tours. From April 27 to May 3, 2025, communities large and small will welcome more than 24,000 visitors for a journey through the Commonwealth’s natural and architectural beauty.
For more than a century, the GCV has championed the preservation of Virginia’s historic landscapes. Proceeds from Historic Garden Week, the organization’s signature fundraiser, have supported the restoration of iconic public gardens, such as the 18th-century grounds at Stratford Hall and Belmont, the home of Impressionist painter Gari Melchers. The event also funds graduate-level research fellowships, building a vital archive of Virginia’s historic gardens and landscapes.
“Since 1920, the Garden Club of Virginia’s mission has been focused on conservation, restoration, and the love of gardening,” says Kris Carbone, the GCV’s President. “We hope to encourage future generations to build on this heritage,”
The event is not only a tribute to Virginia’s beauty but is also a powerful engine for preservation and growth. “After recently completing a third study with our consultants at Chmura, we are thrilled to announce the cumulative economic impact over the last 55 years of this fundraiser to be $679 million,” says Virginia Gillock, Historic Garden Week’s Chair.
The full-color, 252-page Historic Garden Week Guidebook offers detailed descriptions of the homes and gardens featured in the upcoming tours, along with directions, ticket prices, and local contact information. Copies are available at outlets statewide and can be purchased through the Garden Club of Virginia’s Richmond office or online.
ALBEMARLE TOURS
April 26-28
Hosted by the Albemarle, Charlottesville and Rivanna Garden Clubs
From Roanoke to the Eastern Shore, Historic Garden Week showcases the best of Virginia’s homes and gardens, many of which are right in our own backyard.
Morven’s Gardens: Layers of History and Landscape
Saturday, April 26
Set on ancestral Monacan land once known as Dick’s Plantation and Indian Camp, Morven’s gardens showcase centuries of evolving stewardship. Featured in Historic Garden Week since 1930, their revival began when Mary and Charles Stone hired NYC landscape architect Annette Hoyt Flanders after purchasing the estate in 1926. Earlier efforts by Josephine and Samuel Marshall, Wisconsin dairy farmers who acquired Morven in 1906, included restoring the original c. 1820 Higginbotham-era terraces and geometric gardens.
The 1906–1940 renewal, followed by a century of care from the Stones, Kluges, and the UVA Foundation, has made Morven one of Virginia’s best-preserved Colonial Revival gardens. In the 1990s, Japanese landscape designer Tsunoda-san added a summer house and stroll garden in a wooded valley, blending reflection and tradition. Landscape architect Will Rieley assisted in crafting this serene retreat.
Today, Morven’s gardens, fields, and woods connect its historic main house (built 1817–1820) to sweeping views of the Southwest Mountains. As a living laboratory for UVA’s sustainability initiatives, the estate continues its legacy of innovation and preservation.
Catriona
Tudor Erler
Lily Lane: A Timeless Garden
Sunday, April 27
At Bundoran Farm, Betsy and Sandy Stuart built their “new old” home in 2012, inspired by the property’s breathtaking views. Over the years, they have crafted a landscape that feels both established and evolving. Mature boxwoods planted around the home’s foundation lend a sense of age, while early projects included stone walls and peony gardens.
Seeking guidance for the next phase, Betsy enlisted renowned Virginia landscape architect Charles J. Stick. He introduced a semicircle of 12 evenly spaced boxwoods framing the backyard, anchored by a formal garden with an antique armillary sundial at its center. Beyond the semicircle, a more casual field features redbuds, dogwoods, and swaths of daffodils.
Seasonal flowers, annuals, and perennials provide continuous color around the home, while sweeping views of pastures and the Blue Ridge Mountains extend beyond. Three miniature donkeys add to the charm of this idyllic retreat.
Lily Lane photos by Robin Bethke
Miller School of Albemarle: A Legacy of Learning and Innovation
Sunday, April 27
Founded in 1878, the Miller School remains a vibrant educational community on a scenic 1,100-acre campus in Albemarle County. Established to educate children unable to afford schooling, the school broke barriers early by welcoming both boys and girls and combining academics with hands-on labor. Today, it serves more than 300 students with a mission to nurture “Mind, Hands, and Heart.”
The campus, just off Route 635, features architectural landmarks like Old Main, designed in High Victorian Gothic style by Albert Lybrock and D. Wiley Anderson, and the
President’s House, now the Head of School’s residence. Visitors can tour these historic buildings, including Caton Hall, which retains belt-driven shop machinery from its preelectrification era.
Students lead tours showcasing Miller’s history and its revitalized sustainable agriculture program, which highlights no-till, raised bed, and hydroponic gardening, as well as animal husbandry. Listed on the Virginia Landmarks and National Registers in 1973, the Miller School looks forward to celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2028.
Miller School photos by Jack Looney
The Sparg Gardens: A Horticultural Wonder
Sunday, April 27
In just eight years, Teresa and Brian Sparg have transformed their property on Mint Spring Road into a vibrant collection of outdoor “rooms” inspired by Teresa’s horticultural studies at Longwood Gardens and the Barnes Foundation, as well as the couple’s South African roots. The property is layered for year-round interest, beginning with a long spring bed of iris, daffodils, and ornamental grasses along the driveway, anchored by a striking 70-yearold Nyssa tree. Arcing front beds of allium and roses echo the surrounding mountains, transitioning to asters in the fall. A row of
amsonia serves as a deer-resistant “fence,” while woven plant supports made from curly willow add playful touches throughout the gardens.
The side and rear gardens feature Japanese maple, Katsura, viburnum, and azalea in spring, giving way to fall sedum and asters. Meandering mulched paths lead to distinct garden rooms filled with roses, figs, hollies, and vibrant shrubs beneath mature trees. A shade garden of ferns adds texture in the front, while sun-loving plants—including an olive tree, orchids, and a purple Plectranthus—enliven the rear seating area.
Sparg Garden photos by Robin Bethke
Garden Tours at the University of Virginia: A Living Legacy
Monday, April 28
A tour of the University of Virginia’s historic Grounds, designed by Thomas Jefferson, offers visitors a glimpse into the ideals of early American education and architecture. The Academical Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes the iconic Rotunda, Jefferson’s reimagining of Rome’s Pantheon, and ten pavilions originally designed for faculty to teach and live. The Pavilion Gardens, once utilitarian spaces for food preparation and enslaved laborers’ quarters, are now ornamental showcases. In the mid-20th century, the Garden Club of Virginia commissioned Alden Hopkins to restore these gardens in the Colonial Revival style, funding the project with proceeds from Historic Garden Week. Today, shade trees, historic serpentine walls, and vibrant seasonal plantings define these serene spaces. Carr’s Hill, home to UVA’s president since 1909, complements the University’s landscape. Renovated in 2018, its gardens reflect a blend of history and modern design. Together, these spaces embody a legacy of preservation, education, and beauty.
UVA photos by Catriona Tudor Erler
AROUND THE REGION
Experience central Virginia’s rich heritage through these tours, each offering a glimpse into the state’s architecture, horticulture, and history.
Staunton
Saturday, April 26
Hosted by the Augusta Garden Club
Step back in time with a scenic driving tour through Augusta County, established in 1738. Visitors can journey through the charming villages of Verona, Mount Sidney, and Fort Defiance, following the meandering tributaries of the Shenandoah River. Discover four private homes that embody the region’s storied past—many of these historic residences served as sanctuaries, field hospitals, and military headquarters during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Just northeast of Staunton, the area features vineyards, hiking trails, and preserved battlefields.
Lynchburg
Tuesday, April 29
Hosted by the Hillside Garden Club and The Lynchburg Garden Club
Explore the Rivermont Historic District in Lynchburg, where architectural grandeur and old-world charm meet modern conservation and innovative horticultural practices. This tour features exclusive access to five private homes and gardens, each showcasing the district’s hallmark styles, from Dutch Colonial and Italianate to Queen Anne. Developed in the 1890s as a residential suburb, Rivermont is the largest historic district in Lynchburg. Visitors can also explore Camp KumBa-Yah Nature Center, a local gem of ecological education.
Marie Santiago
Julie Schietinger
Harrisonburg
Wednesday, April 30
Hosted by The Spottswood Garden Club
Uncover the layers of history in Harrisonburg with a self-guided tour along Route 11, a path once traversed by Native Americans and later pivotal to westward expansion and the Civil War when it became known as the Great Wagon Road. The tour highlights Mount Crawford’s bicentennial, inviting visitors to explore two historic homes along the North River, surrounded by the breathtaking farmland and mountain vistas of southwestern Rockingham County. Additional stops include a vibrant perennial garden, a mid-19th century farmhouse, and a contemporary take on country living.
Lexington
Saturday, May 3
Hosted by the Blue Ridge Garden Club
Immerse yourself in the charm of Lexington with a walking tour through five exquisite homes and their gardens, each located on the town’s iconic “Lexington brick” walkways. Located within a few blocks of downtown, these historic properties, dating as far back as 1824, tell a story of meticulous preservation and thoughtful innovation. The homes reflect a harmonious mix of architectural styles, while recent renovations showcase creative approaches to blending tradition with modernity. The tour’s proximity to Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute further enhances the town’s cultural and historical appeal.
LEARN MORE
Tickets for Historic Garden Week go on sale online in February and must be purchased in advance. For more details and to secure your tickets, visit VAGardenWeek.org.
Mary Woodson
Jennifer Riner
HOME OFFICE DESIGN TRENDS
Creating a Beautiful, Functional, and Productive Space
By Catherine Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED-AP, Founder and Principal of Purple Cherry Architects
Photos by Durston Saylor, David Burroughs, and Steve Buchannan
AS THE LINES between work and home continue to blur, the design of home offices has also evolved beyond the simple functionality of a desk and chair into rooms with incredible views, comfortable seating options, and beautiful design applications. Today, homeowners are embracing clever and innovative design strategies to transform workspaces into multipurpose retreats that seamlessly integrate with the rest of their home. Here are some of the most notable design trends redefining today’s home office.
MULTIPURPOSE SPACES
For many, the modern home office is no longer a single-purpose room. We are helping many clients reimagine their offices to serve dual roles, whether as a “snore room” for light sleepers, a studio, a gym-office combo, a back kitchen-home office combo, or even a guest bedroom. This adaptability allows the office space to evolve with the household’s changing needs. For example, incorporating a Murphy bed or comfortable daybed into the office allows it to double as a snore room or guest bedroom.
THE POCKET OFFICE
Small can be quite efficient for certain users. A “pocket office” means the office is in a very small space, which brings a high level of efficiency because everything in the room is within easy reach. They are designed to be compact and to maximize utility, and are ideal when space is at a premium.
POCKET DOORS & BARN DOORS
Privacy is paramount when it comes to creating a productive home office, but traditional doors can take up quite a bit of space, especially in smaller rooms. Enter pocket doors and barn doors—stylish solutions that marry form and function. Pocket doors, which seamlessly slide into the wall, are perfect for small spaces where every square inch counts. Barn doors, on the other hand, add a rustic or industrial element while also serving as a prominent design feature. Both options allow for flexible privacy when needed while maintaining a spacious and open feel when the doors are left open (which is most of the time).
SOFT SEATING ARRANGEMENTS
Gone are the days of rigid office chairs and stark desks. Today’s home offices often feature soft seating arrangements offering comfort and relaxation opportunities. A set of plush armchairs or a cozy loveseat creates a welcoming space for reading, brainstorming, or casual conversations. This shift towards softer, more residential furniture in the home office means the space feels less like a cubicle and more like an extension of the home’s overall aesthetic. It also invites everyone into the room versus the historically daunting stark office.
PLAYFUL WALLPAPER & CEILING TREATMENTS
Bold wallpaper and creative ceiling treatments are fantastic ways to infuse a sense of individuality into a home office. Homeowners are increasingly experimenting with playful patterns, vibrant colors, and textured finishes to inject personality into their workspaces and to serve as inspiring backdrops for video calls. Meanwhile, painted, paneled, or wallpapered ceilings add a touch of unexpected drama, drawing the eye upward and giving the room a sense of depth and sophistication.
STYLED SHELVING
Built-in cabinets and open shelving remain staples in home offices, but the trend has shifted away from rows of books dominating the shelves, and towards beautifully styled displays that combine functionality with visual appeal. In addition to books, we focus on curating shelves with meaningful decorative objects, framed photos, and indoor plants. It is also fun to apply playful wallpaper on the back of the shelves. This approach not only creates interest and contrast in the room, but also reflects the personalities of the homeowners.
CONNECTIVITY TO OTHER SPACES
Today’s modern home office is no longer an isolated corner of the house or a destination space on the third floor (unless, of course, that is what our client prefers). Instead, we often design our offices to seamlessly integrate with adjacent, common area spaces. For example, in my Charlottesville home, I designed my office/art studio to be tucked into the great room, but divided by large glass windows, creating a sense of connectivity and allowing the views and natural light to stream in. It is important to me that when I am in my home office, I also feel connected to family members sitting in the adjacent spaces.
AS WE CONTINUE to redefine the boundaries between work and home life and learn how we can more successfully work at home, these are just some of the design innovations that are not only conducive to creating productivity, but also contribute to our overall happiness and well-being.
Sports
PICKLEBALL PARADISE
FROM PANDEMIC PASTIME TO NATIONAL CHAMPS
In just a few short years, the University of Virginia's pickleball club has transformed from a small group of enthusiasts to a national champion and business juggernaut. Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the club began with a simple Instagram post featuring two students playing on a rain-soaked court. In November 2023, UVA won the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating Collegiate National Championship, defeating the University of North Carolina and cementing its place as a dominant force in collegiate pickleball. The team narrowly missed out on a second consecutive national title in November 2024, finishing as runners-up.
The club’s meteoric rise mirrors the explosive growth of pickleball, regarded as the nation’s fastest growing sport. With more than 700 members, UVA boasts the largest collegiate pickleball club in the country. The team’s success on the court has been matched by its business acumen off it. Led by Conor Burns, a McIntire School of Commerce student, the club has secured an impressive array of sponsorships.
Burns, now the club’s head of sponsorships and partnerships after a stint as its president, first recognized the club's business potential during the 2023 national championships. He assembled a fivemember sponsorship team, including a law student to handle legal matters, transforming the club into a full-blown, student-run business.
In August 2024, Selkirk Sport announced a groundbreaking collaboration with UVA Athletics, becoming the official pickleball partner through summer 2026. This multi-year agreement extends across multiple sports and establishes the company as the presenting sponsor for the UVA men’s and women’s tennis programs, fostering a closer relationship between the two sports at the collegiate level. The pickleball club also has sponsorships for its paddles, shoes, balls, socks, ball machine, nets, recovery products, hydration drinks, energy drinks, and apparel.
“We have a larger tournament team than anybody else. Our demographic is very much in line with what these companies are looking for,” Conor Burns told Today. “And they see the college space as just a whole new demographic and market for pickleball—apparel, paddles, everything.”
by Myles Mellor
ACROSS
1 Yellow spring flower celebration on 3/26 at the Garden Club of Virginia, 2 words
8 Arborist’s concern
9 Floating frozen mass at sea
11 Expression of amazement
15 The latest digital technology, abbr.
16 Miner’s find
18 Supports
20 “Nature Camp” for kids in the ____ Washington National Forest
23 Soybean-based protein
24 River bottom
25 Formal social events
27 Quick snapshot
30 Ad medium
31 A primary concern of the Garden Club of VA (protection of public & private lands)
34 51 in Roman times
35 Compete for victory
36 Famous steeplechase races held in Albemarle County
38 Marketing messages
40 Albemarle’s Doyles River feature
41 Essential requirements
Crossword
1 Romantic meeting
2 Michelangelo style of painting
3 Currently operating
4 Frozen surface that melts in spring
5 The Flowering ___wood: Virginia’s state flower and state tree
6 Evergreen with red berries
7 Albemarle native, he worked with Clark on the Louisiana Purchase
10 Road, for short
12 Tree that’s a symbol of strength
13 Farmer John____: founding member of the Albemarle Agricultural Society
14 Tennis star Nadal’s nickname
17 ___ maple: tree native to Virginia
18 Booker T. Washington Park’s _ _, 2 words
19 ___ Charlottesville: engaging community in building an equitable, food system
21 Grand in scale
22 Ball carrier in football, abbr.
26 Stay clear of
28 Yellow, red and purple for example
29 Gentle wind
32 Cancel
33 Bird homes
37 Aviation regulatory body, abbr.
39 Capital city, abbr.
GET MORE ONLINE
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AT HOME
Albemarle magazine frequently features ideas for buying, building, renovating, repurposing and redecorating the indoor and outdoor spaces that define our lives, and the resources to bring those ideas to fruition.
MOVING TO A NEW HOME?
CARDINAL HOME CENTER HAS YOU COVERED.
Learn more about the services, premium brands, and products Cardinal Home Center offers at their stores in Madison, Charlottesville, and Crozet. Their dedicated staff provides expert advice for your next project, helping you pick out the right paint, hardware, lumber, cabinets, and more. The expansive showrooms also offer an array of electrical, plumbing, tools, and more for homeowners, DIYers, or contractors alike. cardinalhomecenter.com
FIRST HOME, SECOND HOME,
VACATION HOME, RELOCATING, DOWNSIZING, NEW BUSINESS, OR BUSINESS EXPANSION?
Albemarle magazine invites you to meet our Who’s Who of Realtors®, an exclusive listing of CAAR members on our website (albemarlemagazine.com/whos-who) dedicated to connecting potential buyers and sellers and building relationships in our community.
Stage Life
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS
Four decades after starting their musical journey as high school friends jamming together in the early 80s, Todd Park Mohr, Brian Nevin, and Rob Squires are still going strong. The Colorado trio formed Big Head Todd and the Monsters in 1986, and broke through with their 1993 album Sister Sweetly, which went platinum and placed three songs in the Billboard top 25.
Since then, the group LA Times described as a “new type of American Rock ‘n’ Roll band” has toured and recorded with music legends including B.B. King, Neil Young, The Allman Brothers, Dave Matthews Band, The Eagles, and Robert Plant. They’ve also headlined Red Rocks Amphitheatre 35 times.
“The goal has to do with reaching out to people, catching their ears, and sharing a story we hope they relate to,” says Todd Park Mohr. “Our fans have given us an incredible 40-year career, and we hope they’ve gotten great songs and performances in return.”
FEB 15: Creedence Clearwater Recital: The Premiere CCR Tribute Band
FEB 15: Full Moon Fever: Tom Petty Tribute
FEB 27: Mamma Mania!
FEB 28: Mama Tried
MAR 21: Eyes of Silver: A Tribute to The Doobie Brothers
MAR 28: James Tamelcoff Band
APR 4: Abrams Bridge: Springsteen Tribute
LIVE ARTS
434-977-4177 • livearts.org
123 East Water Street, Charlottesville
FEB 14 – MAR 2: Marys Seacole
MAR 21 – APR 12: The Trip to Bountiful
THE SOUTHERN CAFÉ & MUSIC HALL
434-977-5590 • thesoutherncville.com 103 South 1st Street, Charlottesville
FEB 8: Carsie Blanton
FEB 13: Kendall Street Company
FEB 14: Valentine’s Day Burlesque
FEB 19: Mdou Moctar
FEB 20: Kendall Street Company
FEB 22: Penelope Road
FEB 26: Arts Fishing Club
FEB 27: Kendall Street Company
FEB 28: Chatham Rabbits
MAR 1: Vansire
MAR 8: Tim O’Brien with Jan Fabricus
MAR 11: Ron Pope
MAR 18: Sing Like Hell - Peter Case and Sid Griffin
MAR 21: Hazlett
MAR 22: Virginia Mann & Waasi
MAR 28: Underground Springhouse
FRONT PORCH
434-806-7062 • frontporchcville.org
211 East Water Street, Charlottesville
FEB 21: Jordan Tice with Mike Burris & Andy Thacker
MAR 14: The Honey Dewdrops
THE PARAMOUNT THEATER
434-979-1333 • theparamount.net
215 East Main Street, Charlottesville
FEB 7: Billy F. Gibbons
FEB 7: Jay and Silent Bob–The Aural Sects Tour
FEB 15: Almost Queen–A Tribute to Queen
FEB 20: National Theatre Live on Screen–The Importance of Being Earnest
MAR 1: Kathleen Madigan–The Day Drinking Tour
MAR 7-9: Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival
MAR 15: Met Live in HD–Fidelio
MAR 15: AHS Jazz Band–Swing into Spring Benefit Concert
MAR 19: Exhibition on Screen–Dawn of Impressionism: Paris, 1874
MAR 21: José González
MAR 23: Golden Girls–The Laughs Continue
MAR 25: The Legal Aid Justice Center Presents an Evening with Angela Davis
MAR 27: A Year with Frog and Toad
AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE CENTER
877-682-4236 • americanshakespearecenter.com
10 South Market Street, Staunton
FEB 6–APR 19: Little Women
FEB 13–APR 19: King Lear
MAR 20–APR 20: The Comedy of Errors
THE JEFFERSON THEATER
800-594-TIXX• jeffersontheater.com
110 East Main Street, Charlottesville
FEB 7: Steep Canyon Rangers
FEB 7: Good Kid, M.A.A.D Party: Kendrick Night
FEB 11: The Wood Brothers
FEB 18: Max McNown
FEB 19: Michael Marcagi
FEB 21: United We Dance
FEB 23: Big Head Todd and the Monsters
FEB 28: Marc Broussard
MAR 1: Sierra Hull with Stephanie Lambring
MAR 4: CJ Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band
MAR 5: MOE
MAR 8: Donna The Buffalo
APR 3: Paul Cauthen
APR 4: Sam Burchfield
APR 5: John Vincent III
FOUR COUNTY PLAYERS
540-832-5355 • fourcp.org
5256 Governor Barbour Street, Barboursville
MAR 7–30: The Prom
THE FOUNDRY AT BASIC CITY
540-943-1010 • thefoundrysound.com
1010 East Main Street, Waynesboro
FEB 7: The Rush Experience
FEB 7: No Fences–The Ultimate Tribute to Garth Brooks
FEB 15: The Warped Tour Band
FEB 28: Chris Jacobs
MAR 6: Brass Against
MAR 7: Keller Williams
MAR 8: Lovesong – The Cure Tribute
WAYNE THEATRE
ROSS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
540-943-9999 • waynetheatre.org
521 West Main Street, Waynesboro
FEB 14 & 23: Romeo and Juliet
MAR 4: Paul Taylor Dance Company
MAR 19: Celtic Angels Ireland
ALTRIA THEATER
800-514-3849 • altriatheater.com
6 North Laurel Street, Richmond
FEB 13: Wait Wait ... Don't Tell Me
FEB 14: R&B Invitation Tour
MAR 4-16: Moulin Rouge!
Life Party of the
Masked Ball at Veritas
New Year's Eve Celebration
Guests at Veritas Vineyard & Winery’s annual “New Year’s Eve Masked Ball” enjoyed a glamorous black-tie event that combined the mystery of a masquerade with the excitement of ringing in 2025. A five-course dinner by Executive Chef Andy Shipman featured seasonal, locally sourced ingredients paired with Veritas’ wines. Afterward, revelers danced the night away to music by DJ Derek Tobler. An elegant midnight toast was followed by a hearty breakfast buffet—all combining for an unforgettable start to the new year.
Photography by Anna Shapiro
The Grand Cuckoo
The annual New Year's Eve celebration at Common House, “The Grand Cuckoo” featured a high-energy dance party with music by DJ Orangina, festive entertainment, and a midnight champagne tower.
Photography by Laura Carstensen Taylor for Common House.
GROUP TICKET OPTIONS
Hospitality + Large Groups
Bring your friends, family, teams, donors, or clients together for a day of fun at the races.
Contact the race office: information@foxfieldraces.com
SPONSORSHIPS
Reach a large crowd, make an impact on our community! For sponsorship and advertising opportunities contact: information@foxfieldraces.com
