University News

Ryan To Run 13th Straight Boston Marathon, This Time for UVA Health Children’s

April 9, 2024 • By Andrew Ramspacher, fpa5up@virginia.edu Andrew Ramspacher, fpa5up@virginia.edu

Student runner capturing a selfie with President Jim Ryan

“Run With Jim” will take on additional meaning next week when UVA President Jim Ryan competes in the Boston Marathon. (Photo by Emily Faith Morgan, University Communications)

Continuing a spring tradition linking the University of Virginia to one of the world’s most famous races, UVA President Jim Ryan will compete in the upcoming Boston Marathon.

This time, he’s running for UVA Health Children’s.

The 128th Boston Marathon, set for April 15, will mark Ryan’s 13th consecutive year running in the prestigious event. The feat will again align with the president’s charitable efforts. Those who donate $26 to the cause will receive a “Run With Jim” T-shirt. (Donation details can be found here.)

More than $34,000 has already been made to the campaign, including a goal-shattering 39 sponsors who gave $260 and whose names will appear on the back of Ryan’s jersey during the race.

Give Where You Live, Support Our Local NonProfits. Donate Now

“It’s an honor to dedicate my run to the patients and health care providers at UVA Health Children’s, which provides outstanding care to children and families in Charlottesville and beyond,” Ryan said. “I’m grateful to all those who have supported this effort and look forward to joining other Hoos running in the Boston Marathon this year.”

U.S. News & World Report has named UVA Health Children’s the No. 1 children’s hospital in Virginia for three consecutive years. The hospital continues exploring ways to expand services for children and families, including a partnership with Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital to open the UVA Health Children's Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Care clinic in Albemarle County later this year.

Those who donate $26 to the cause will receive this “Run With Jim” T-shirt. (UVA Health Children’s image)

Ryan, UVA’s president since 2018, has supported various causes over the years in association with the marathon, including nurses, veterans, teachers and Madison House, the independent, nonprofit volunteer center for UVA students.

In 2023, Ryan ran the 26.2 miles in memory of the three UVA football players – Devin Chandler, Lavel Davis Jr. and D’Sean Perry – whose lives were lost in the Nov. 13, 2022, shooting on Grounds.