The beautiful spring afternoon included a performance by AVP current members and alumni, heartfelt words from Deirdre and Paul Phillips, Earl Mark and John Buttram, and the presentation of the award to a grateful Sam. A big thank you to all involved and cheers to Sam on his successes as a designer and musician thus far, and for helping Blair's spirit live on both in and out of Campbell Hall and the University of Virginia.
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| AVP members and alumni including award recipient Sam Eldredge (BSArch '15) at far left |
A bit more background on our friend and the award:
The Blair Phillips Memorial Fund was established in April 2013 to honor Blair Phillips (BSArch ’11), his life and accomplishments, and to support future awards at the University of Virginia. The Blair Phillips Memorial Award is presented annually on the basis of merit to two exceptionally deserving undergraduate students, one studying at the School of Architecture and another a member of the Academical Village People (AVP), a student a cappella musical group at the University of Virginia.
Blair’s positive energy, creativity, and enthusiasm manifested itself in roles as an AVP member and Music Director, as a student and teacher of architecture, and in his professional achievements after graduation. Blair is best remembered for his abilities to collaborate effortlessly and synthesize ideas across disciplines, while at the same time being fully attentive to many personal friendships and diverse interests.
We are actively fundraising for the endowment of the fund to ensure these awards will be granted in perpetuity. If you are interested in contributing or have questions about the fund, please contact Sara Allen Harper of the AYAC or the SARC Foundation directly. If you are ready to contribute, please include "Blair Phillips Memorial Award" in the special instructions section of this online contribution form. Thank you for your support!
