David Kovacs
Hugh H. Obear Twenty-First Century Distinguished Professor of Classics
Ancient languages captivated David Kovacs ab initio, “from the very beginning,” when he started studying Latin in the ninth grade at the Charles F. Brush High School in Lyndhurst, Ohio.
“I loved it,” he said. “Latin was neat and logical, and it laid bare what the actual structure of your thought was. It was like a neat toy.” So in the tenth grade, Mr. Kovacs began to teach himself Greek. more >
ProfessorshipsShort Takes from the GroundsDean Jim Aylor speaks on the engineering school’s #1 priority of retaining and supporting U.Va. faculty. By any standard, endowed professorships have been the most significant factor in the University’s steady rise in stature. An endowed chair, with its prestige and financial rewards, is one of the most coveted honors a faculty member can receive. More than any other honor, it attests to a scholar’s standing among peers, both within the University and throughout the academic world. With endowed chairs, the University effectively competes with other universities for outstanding faculty, and rewards professors who make learning a joy for their students. Giving OpportunitiesDeanshipsEndowed deanships enable the University to attract and recognize distinguished faculty who contribute to the academic rigor of the institution and help shape its future. Minimum level of $5 million. ProfessorshipsEndowed professorships provide permanent sources of support for faculty excellence and recognize scholars’ standing throughout the academic world. Minimum level of $2 million. Faculty Funds for ExcellenceThese funds allow schools to nurture faculty research and create new courses. Minimum level of $1 million. Named Research FundsThese funds support faculty engaged in humanities scholarship or the research needed for new discoveries in science, medicine, or engineering. Minimum level of $500,000. Endowed LectureshipsThese funds allow the University to bring noted speakers to the Grounds, enriching academic discourse and bringing new perspectives to students, faculty, and the larger community. Minimum level of $100,000. Legacy of Distinction FundIn addition to endowed funds, expendable funds are needed for projects requiring immediate financial support. Facing the sizable number of faculty retirements forecast over the next several years, the College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences created the Legacy of Distinction Fund. With a goal of $5 million, the fund will provide a “bridge” to hire ten to twelve new faculty now, in anticipation of the retirement of eminent faculty in high-priority fields. Learn more at the Endowed Professorships site. Endowed Professorships: Giving Opportunities Endowed Professorships: Embracing a Distinguished Tradition David Kovacs: Hugh H. Obear Twenty-First Century Distinguished Professor of Classics |