The University of Virginia and the UVA Foundation announced this month that the Morven Farm property will move forward as UVA’s “Sustainability Lab,” bringing together a broad range of education, experimentation, innovation, research and engagement in support of the University’s strategic commitment to environmental resilience and sustainability.
“Defining a clear mission for Morven anchors the property to UVA and gives the staff a strong foundation for future programming,” UVA Provost Ian Baucom said. “This new vision for Morven aligns with the sustainability goals in the 2030 Plan and underpins the tremendously positive work already underway at Morven. We are so grateful to the foundation, particularly Tim Rose and Maryellen Dolan, for partnering with us on this next chapter for Morven.”
The nearly 3,000-acre farm was part of philanthropist John Kluge’s 2001 gift to the UVA Foundation. It has been used as a space for meetings and events while University leadership considered a plan to maximize the farm’s potential.
“President Ryan called upon a cross-disciplinary group of faculty and administrators to undertake a rigorous review of the property and its current programming and make recommendations for its future,” Louis Nelson, vice provost for academic outreach, said. “The major focus areas the committee generated are carefully selected to draw on Morven’s strengths and make the most meaningful use of this special place.”
UVA will focus on four major areas of research and academic programming at Morven: environment and sustainability, food and agriculture, physical and mental wellness, and history and legacy. Morven’s existing food-related programs and operations will continue as a part of that mission. Morven’s venues will still be available to book for educational and charitable events.
The UVA Foundation and UVA will continue to share governance over the property, with organizational oversight shifting within the provost’s office from Global Affairs to Academic Outreach. Acting Director Rebecca Deeds has been named the full-time director of Morven programs, and a search is underway for a half-time academic director from the faculty.