by Abena Foreman-Trice

Newswise — CHARLOTTESVILLE, Virginia — The University of Virginia Darden School of Business Annual Fund raised $5 million in unrestricted support for the 2014 fiscal year — setting its fourth consecutive record. The total reflects a 9 percent increase over the previous year's total of $4.6 million.

"We are humbled by the outpouring of donations, which is a testament to our supporters' devotion to Darden and its mission," said Darden's Dean Bob Bruner. "Because of them, the School is able to continue developing and inspiring responsible leaders and advancing knowledge."

Alumni, students, faculty members and corporate donors from all over the world contribute to Darden's Annual Fund campaign each year. The 2014 total represents a 66 percent jump since 2010.

The Darden Annual Fund saw widespread participation across the School's stakeholder groups, including outstanding participation rates from the following groups:

100 percent of the members of the School's five leadership board members (Foundation Board of Trustees, Global Advisory Council, Dean's Diversity Advisory Council, Corporate Advisory Board, Darden Alumni Board of Directors)

99 percent of Darden's Class of 2014

84 percent of Darden's faculty members

41 percent of Darden's alumni

Of the 57 total MBA graduating classes since the Darden School's founding in 1955, 15 classes reached or surpassed 50 percent participation.

"The gains we have made each year demonstrate the increasing support for Darden's mission and success among our graduates, who are some of the most engaged and supportive business school alumni in the world," said Carter Hoerr, executive director for advancement.

This year's Annual Fund total will have a tremendous impact on the School's education experience, rated No. 1 in the world, and its emerging priorities. The unrestricted funds help support:

Merit-based scholarships

New business research ideas

Global program development

Curricular innovation

Gifts to the Darden Annual Fund enable the school to seize new opportunities and fuel innovation.

For questions or information, contact Samantha Hartog, director of the Darden Annual Fund, at [email protected] or a member of the Communication team.

About the Darden School of Business
The University of Virginia Darden School of Business is one of the world's leading business schools, offering MBA, Ph.D. and Executive Education programs. The unique Darden experience combines the case study method, top-ranked faculty whose research advances global managerial practice and business education, and a tight-knit learning environment to develop responsible and complete leaders who are ready to make an impact.

Press ContactMatt CharlesDirector of Media RelationsDarden School of BusinessUniversity of Virginia[email protected]+1-434-924-7502

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