Pete and Jodi Lyons, alumni of the University of Virginia and the University of Maryland respectively, have announced a $10 million commitment to bolster the university’s volleyball and women’s soccer programs.
A Legacy of Giving
The contribution, which blends immediate philanthropic cash, a matching gift from the Virginia Athletics Foundation, and a planned future bequest, will fund two distinct initiatives.
Half of the pledge will endow volleyball scholarships in honor of Pete and Jodi’s fathers, Bernard T. Lyons and Joseph A. Magennis, while the remaining half will create the Lyons Family Scholarships for Women’s Soccer.
University officials say the gift reflects the couple’s admiration for the caliber of student‑athletes attracted by head coaches Shannon Wells and Steve Swanson, as well as their broader commitment to academic and athletic excellence.
Voices of Gratitude
Kevin Miller, executive director of the Virginia Athletics Foundation, called the donation “transformational,” noting that it will provide critical resources for student‑athletes who might otherwise struggle to participate.
Shannon Wells, head coach of the Virginia volleyball team, emphasized that the Lyons family’s support extends beyond finances, offering mentorship and advocacy that enrich the program’s culture.
Steve Swanson, head coach of the women’s soccer team, highlighted the long‑term impact of the scholarships on recruiting and developing future leaders on the field and in the classroom.
The Lyons’ connection to athletics runs deep; Jodi comes from an athletic family and both she and Pete credit their own collegiate experiences for shaping their philanthropic vision.
The Virginia Athletics Foundation, which supports the university’s 27 Division I programs, will administer the endowments and scholarships, ensuring sustainable funding for years to come.
University President Jim Ryan praised the Lyons family for setting a “high bar” for donor engagement, stating that their contribution will inspire other alumni to invest in student‑athlete success.
The initiative also aligns with UVA’s broader strategy to enhance academic support services, offering tutoring, mentorship and career counseling to scholarship recipients.
Looking Ahead
With the new scholarships in place, the university aims to attract a more diverse pool of talent and to reinforce the competitive edge of its volleyball and women’s soccer squads on the national stage.
Pete Lyons, a 1977 graduate of UVA, reflected on the personal significance of giving back, saying the commitment is “a tribute to the mentors and teammates who helped define his career and life.”
Jodi Lyons, a 1976 alumna of the University of Maryland, added that the family hopes the scholarships will empower young women to pursue both athletic excellence and academic achievement.
The donation underscores a growing trend of private philanthropy complementing public university funding, a partnership that university leaders say is essential for sustaining competitive athletics in an increasingly resource‑intensive landscape.