Data Science and Sustainability Collide: How the University of Virginia’s School of Data Science is Inspiring Future AI Pioneers with $120 Million Gift

The School of Data Science at the University of Virginia has received a historic $120 million gift from the Quantitative Foundation, the private family foundation of Jaffray and Merrill Woodriff. This donation will help fund the construction of a new building for the school, which began in January 2020 with architectural teams from Hopkins Architects, VMDO, and the University’s Office of the Architect.

A guiding philosophy behind the design of this building is to create a space that fosters collaboration and promotes sustainability. This vision was echoed by Phil Bourne, founding dean of the School of Data Science, who emphasized the importance of reflecting the university’s culture of excellence, openness, transparency, interdisciplinarity, and community engagement.

The building is LEED Gold-certified by the U.S. Green Building Council and features sustainable design elements such as solar panels, vents and windows in individual offices, and active and passive shading systems to reduce artificial lighting needs. It also includes a wellness area, lactation space, and all non-gendered restrooms.

Jaffray Woodriff expressed his excitement for this project as he believes it aligns with his values and passion for data science. He hopes that this new building will be an inspiration for students to pursue careers in artificial intelligence (AI) while keeping ethical considerations at their forefront. With this gift funding construction costs and creating more spaces for research and learning within its walls