Pamela Feinour Edmonds (Mother)
Tell us a few things about yourself (family, job, things that bring you joy).
I met my husband of 25 years in Bonneycastle dorm in the fall of 1987. I graduated from the College with a degree in Rhetoric and Communications in 1991. Frank Edmonds, my husband, also graduated from the College in 1991 and received his JD/MBA from UVA in 1996. We moved to NYC for 10 years and moved back to Charlottesville in 2006. Our three children, Holland (20), Allie (18), and Spicer (14) were all born in NYC but have loved growing up in Charlottesville. I find joy in playing leadership roles and getting others engaged in organizations I am passionate about. Whether it is at UVA, JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), the Paramount Theater, my children’s school or James Madison’s Montpelier, I enjoy getting involved as much as I can.
What is your favorite UVA memory?
There are too many to count. My most recent is my daughter’s acceptance to UVA this fall. The National Championship in Minneapolis in April 2019 is a close second, but my undergraduate memories are too many to recount.
Is there something you learned at UVA that you apply to your life now?
That it is OK to be passionate and enthusiastic about people and organizations you are committed to and inspired by.
Tell us about a woman/women at UVA who inspires you – now, or during your time on Grounds.
Pat Lampkin—her commitment to students and her genuine interest in their success and happiness is irreplaceable.
If you could impart a piece of advice to a female student on Grounds today, what would you tell her? Get involved in everything you have ever wanted to try. Do what makes you uncomfortable or what you have been afraid to do. I still look back and wish I had taken more advantage of all that this special place has to offer.
Allie Edmonds (Daughter)
Tell us a few things about yourself (family, current studies/hobbies, things that bring you joy).
I am a senior at St. Anne’s-Belfield School in Charlottesville and will finish my 14th year at the school before I head to UVA in the fall to join the Class of 2024. Throughout high school, I have found joy playing field hockey and lacrosse for St. Anne’s, singing and performing in the school musicals and with my acapella group, and running.
How did you decide to apply to/come to UVA?
Born in New York City, I moved to Charlottesville at the age of four. My parents are two proud UVA alumni who met as undergraduates. I have spent almost every weekend for the past 14 years at a UVA football, basketball, or lacrosse game and I could not imagine myself anywhere else. My parents also could not speak more highly of their experiences at UVA and it made me want to experience it for myself.
If you could ask a current female student or alum for a piece of advice, what would you ask her?
I would ask a current female student or alum if there are any aspects of the University that they regret not having experienced. With so many opportunities, I would want to know what the student wishes she had not missed or tried during her years at UVA. Whether it be a club, class, or activity, I want to ensure that I live my UVA experience to the absolute fullest.