Trey McDonald, a third-year student in the University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce, excels in academia and football – and now adds “T. Rodney Crowley Scholar” to his resume.
The UVA Alumni Association awards the T. Rodney Crowley Jr. Memorial Scholarship, which provides the equivalent of full in-state tuition for the recipient’s undergraduate fourth year, to an accomplished student who demonstrates leadership, sportsmanship, character and integrity. It was established in 1991 in memory of T. Rodney Crowley Jr., an athlete and coach who died of brain cancer.
For McDonald, the recognition reinforces what he values most about the McIntire School.
“My peers are some of the brightest individuals I’ve met, and it is an incredible environment,” McDonald said. “On top of that, McIntire stood out to me with its global alumni reach, world-class faculty and a curriculum that emphasizes real-world problem-solving. Being a part of this program has pushed me to grow, both as a student and a future professional.”
McDonald, a linebacker from Chattanooga, Tennessee, has also earned awards for his play on the football field: the 12th Man Award in 2024, and the Defensive Impact Player of the Year honor in 2022.
McDonald is “the epitome of a scholar-athlete,” Cavalier head football coach Tony Elliott says. (UVA Athletics photo)
“Balancing McIntire with football is definitely a heavy workload, but it’s one I embrace fully,” he said. “I’ve always looked for ways to challenge myself, and managing both has been a great test of discipline, time management and perseverance. It’s incredibly fulfilling to push my limits in the classroom and on the field, and I don’t take either opportunity for granted.”
McDonald channels his entrepreneurial spirit into creating innovative and meaningful ventures – and sees big potential at the intersection of business and sports.
“One area that’s constantly on my mind is the role of data in sports, particularly how we collect, interpret and act on data to improve athletic performance,” McDonald said. “As an athlete, I’ve seen the inefficiencies firsthand, and I think there’s potential to develop a more intuitive, athlete-friendly technology to collect and utilize data in sports.”
He is considering following a path into investment banking, where he can continue working in a high-stakes, team-oriented environment.
“At the same time, I’ve seriously considered joining the Army after graduation, with the goal of becoming an Army Ranger,” McDonald said. “It has been a dream of mine for years and is an opportunity to see if I have what it takes to be a part of something bigger than myself at the highest level.”
When not working or training, McDonald volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House, at Greer Elementary School in Albemarle County, and as a tutor.
“I believe everyone has a responsibility to give back,” McDonald said. “I’ve been fortunate to receive support and opportunities in my own life and I feel it’s only right to do what I can for those who may not have access to the same resources. I want to be able to build up my community in meaningful ways.”
“Trey is the epitome of a scholar-athlete,” UVA head football coach Tony Elliott said. “Trey’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field serves as a model to all of his teammates. I cannot think of anyone more deserving than Trey.”
