Dozens of University of Virginia faculty members will lend their expertise to a series of workshops and discussions in downtown Charlottesville, beginning Wednesday, as part of the 13th annual Tom Tom Festival.
They will participate in panels on topics including entrepreneurship, technology and wellness. The festival will include a new “Civic Futures Track” featuring UVA President Jim Ryan and Karsh Institute of Democracy Executive Director Melody Barnes. The track will explore ways to shape the future of the region.
Another focus will be on entrepreneurship and small business.
“As a member of the UVA community, I’m thrilled to see us actively participating in discussions about our future at the Tom Tom Festival,” Michael Lenox, a Darden School of Business professor and special adviser to the provost on entrepreneurship, said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to come together, share ideas and inspire positive change. This year, we’re aiming to bridge gaps and continue strengthening bonds within our community. We are excited to contribute to discussions that will shape the future of our community and beyond.”
The festival’s theme this year, “Evolve,” will focus, in part, on improving how Charlottesville, UVA and Albemarle County work together. The five-day event will feature more than 200 speakers and is expected to draw more than 20,000 visitors to the Downtown Mall and surrounding areas.
“Strengthening the relationship between UVA and the Charlottesville and Albemarle community remains one of my top priorities as president,” Ryan said. “I’m delighted that UVA is part of the conversation about our shared future, and I’m looking forward to being part of this year’s Tom Tom Festival.”
