CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Virginia Athletics and the Virginia Athletics Foundation (VAF) announced a $1 million gift from Richard and Donna Tadler. The contribution will be designated for Virginia men’s basketball, men’s golf and women’s golf enhancement funds.
“We have been rabid UVA basketball fans since the 70s and this was a way to give back to a University and a program that we love,” Richard Tadler said. “Golf is a more recent passion since moving back to Charlottesville in 2014. We have closely followed the men’s and women’s golf programs and have been so impressed by both the coaches and the student-athletes. We want this gift to continue to elevate the programs on and off the course.”
Richard Tadler is a 1978 graduate of UVA’s McIntire School of Commerce. He went on to receive an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and has worked in private equity for 40 years. Donna Tadler is a 1979 graduate of the School of Education and Human Development and worked in various positions at CYRK Inc. They met on Grounds and were married in the University Chapel in 1979.
The Tadlers have been generous benefactors to the University for more than 25 years and have made impactful contributions, including establishing the Tadler Fellowship program and the Donna and Richard Tadler University Professorship of Entrepreneurship at McIntire.
Dean and Markel Families Men’s Head Basketball Coach Ryan Odom
“We are grateful for this generous gift from Richard and Donna. Their support reflects an unwavering commitment to UVA Athletics and our student-athletes, and it will play an important role in helping us continue to compete for championships.”
Tony Markel Family Men’s Golf Head Coach Bowen Sargent
“It’s amazing the support we receive from so many people who love our program and our student-athletes. As with all donors, Richard and Donna are a big part of why we’ve been so successful. To be successful and compete for ACC and NCAA Championships requires support from people who are passionate about the University, the athletic department and our program. We are very grateful to the Tadlers for their overwhelming generosity.”
Head Women’s Golf Coach Ria Scott
“We are beyond grateful for Richard and Donna’s commitment to Virginia Athletics and our program specifically. Their generosity shows their belief in our program and aligns with our values in developing well-rounded student-athletes. Richard has become a great role model and mentor for what is possible for the student-athlete looking to work in the finance industry.”
About the Virginia Athletics Foundation
The Virginia Athletics Foundation (VAF) proudly supports the University of Virginia’s 27 men’s and women’s Division I programs. Cavalier Olympic sport programs consistently rank among the nation’s best, but their continued success depends on strong philanthropic investment. The leadership and generosity reflected in gifts like this ignite the spirit of Virginia Athletics, fueling championship pursuits, enriching the student-athlete experience, and inspiring the next generation of Cavaliers. For more information about supporting UVA student-athletes, please visit Virginia Athletics Foundation or email vafweb@virginia.edu.