

A team of mathematicians, including a UVA Arts & Sciences faculty member, has solved a decade-old problem that even advanced artificial intelligence could not crack—underscoring the power of human insight in tackling complex challenges. Fueled by a culture of collaboration and supported by philanthropy, this work highlights how investments in faculty and research empower discovery, elevate graduate and undergraduate learning, and drive impact at the forefront of mathematical innovation.
Four Arts & Sciences professors have been named 2026 Guggenheim Fellows, one of the nation’s highest honors for scholars and artists. Their groundbreaking research, supported by a culture of academic excellence and sustained by philanthropic investment in faculty and research, will advance new knowledge and shape conversations far beyond Grounds—demonstrating the power of private support to elevate scholarship, expand impact, and prepare future generations.
A newly installed radio telescope at UVA is opening powerful new pathways to uncover the mysteries of dark matter, one of the universe’s most elusive forces. Made possible through philanthropic support, this cutting-edge instrument gives graduate students and Arts & Sciences students the opportunity to engage directly in advanced research—driving discovery, deepening hands-on learning, and extending UVA’s impact in the global scientific community.
From the humanities to the sciences, 27 exceptional graduate students have been recognized with endowed fellowships, made possible by generous donors who believe deeply in the importance and impact of a strong graduate program.
Congratulations to these faculty members named to the Clarivate’s 2025 Highly Cited Researchers List, which recognizes scholars whose work ranks in the top 1% worldwide. Philanthropic support for A&S allows critical research across diverse fields to continue in times when federal grant landscape remains uncertain.
Arts & Sciences honored three faculty members for exceptional guidance and support of graduate students. This standard of excellence in academic leadership advances the prestige of the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, a key philanthropic priority that’s critical to UVA’s overall national ranking.
You made it happen! When UVA wrapped up its Honor the Future Campaign, donors had raised over $6 billion. Gifts for Arts & Sciences totaled an unprecedented $790 million! See for yourself the huge impact donor philanthropy has on every aspect our academic mission.
Dean Acampora explains why the humanities remain vital as artificial intelligence reshapes our world. She believes the "liberal arts teach us what it means to be human." From ethical reasoning and empathy to cultural literacy and meaning-making, these disciplines provide the human edge needed to guide technology and prepare students for complex decisions.
Using cutting-edge artificial intelligence, A&S researchers are mapping the eerie spread of “ghost forests” along the Atlantic coast, uncovering how rising seas and climate change are transforming ecosystems. Donor support for graduate research like this enhances knowledge, harnessing AI positively to advance UVA’s research profile.
Marguerite Adzick credits UVA’s top-notch liberal arts education for helping her build a thriving athleisure brand. The invaluable critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills paved her path to successful entrepreneurship. The College Fund helps Arts & Sciences provide students with support for undergrad career-preparedness.
In November, a special 2-day event brought together students, faculty, scholars, and alumni to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Jewish Studies at UVA. The weekend kicked off a $25 million fundraising campaign to strengthen and grow this interdisciplinary program through new professorships, graduate fellowships, and programming.