Susan and Blair Thomas, members of the classes of 1986 and 1984 respectively, fell in love with the University after 48 hours on the Grounds during one of the University’s big weekends.  Their individual experiences at U.Va. were life-changing.  In addition to receiving a great education, they made many life-long friends and, of course, met each other.

Why give back?
In addition to setting a good example for our children, giving back is an expression of the gratitude that we feel to the University and the positive influence it has had on our lives.

What about the Jefferson Scholars Foundation allowed you to become more active with your philanthropy?
The Foundation does a great job in making it easy to participate.  You can be as active as you want and the Foundation staff is as supportive as possible without putting undue pressure on you.

How did you get involved and why was it important to start a new region in Los Angeles?
One of my colleagues at work is an active alumnus and arranged a coffee with Pat Ingram when he was coming through Los Angeles.  Pat’s message really struck a chord because we had already started to think about ways that we could support the University.  We liked the idea of starting a new region because we both believe that geographic diversity is an important factor in maintaining the richness of the U.Va. experience.  Needless to say, that was the most expensive cup of coffee I’ve ever had.

What is the best part of your Jefferson Scholars experience?
Without question, the best part of the JSF experience is the interview process with the high school nominees.  The quality of the students amazes us.

The Thomases have spearheaded the effort to raise the financial support necessary to launch a new selection region in Los Angeles.  In addition, they have served as co-chairs with Jefferson Scholar alumna Allison Kean (Col ’93) and Adele Stotler (Com ’80).  In the first year of the Jefferson Scholarship effort in Los Angeles, Susan, Blair and the committee reviewed 24 nominees, nearly five times as many candidates as their California peer San Francisco.  In that initial year, Hanna Moody, the nominee from  Harvard-Westlake School, was selected to receive the Jefferson Scholarship.