Breaking ground for the South Lawn

A ceremonial groundbreaking for the South Lawn Project took place Sept. 29 as part of a weekend of festivities kicking off the $3 billion Campaign for the University of Virginia.

“It is so exciting to have a chance to connect all the things that the South Lawn Project has a chance to connect,” said Edward L. Ayers, the Buckner W. Clay Dean of Arts & Sciences, at the event. “This gives us a chance to connect the University to the Charlottesville community and to the neighbors here who have really welcomed this project in a way for which I’m very grateful.”

The Seven Society added a touch of drama to the ceremony. A lockbox that appeared on the groundbreaking stage — and proved surprisingly difficult to open — contained a $1 million pledge from the Seven Society.