Baldaccis pledge $13M to VCU, Library of Virginia

Best-selling Virginia novelist David Baldacci and his wife, Michelle, have pledged $13 million to Virginia Commonwealth University and the Library of Virginia to launch a nonpartisan initiative that will encompass experiential learning, a tailored curriculum, events and programming spaces, according to a Thursday announcement.

The gift is the largest joint contribution ever received by VCU and the Library of Virginia.

Designed to “promote constructive dialogue in a polarized world,” the effort, called the Civil Discourse and Collaboration Initiative, will build on work already underway at VCU’s College of Humanities and Sciences and the Library of Virginia and is designed to bring together universities, colleges and organizations across Virginia.

A lifelong resident of the commonwealth, David Baldacci earned a degree in political science from VCU. He and his wife have been active with the Library of Virginia for many years. About a year ago, the Baldaccis began conversations with Catherine Ingrassia, dean of VCU’s College of Humanities and Sciences, and state librarian Dennis Clark about the need for constructive dialogue in a divided world, according to a news release.

“I have long felt that we need to draw people together in a civil manner and learn to have frank and respectful dialogue with those with whom we have differences,” David Baldacci said in a statement. “As constructive interaction has continued to decrease, it is more important than ever to champion this type of initiative, which has, as its chief goal, the bringing together of people to solve complex problems and move the country forward.”

“This program is an important step in helping to prepare our students as leaders who bridge divides and build consensus through dialogue and understanding,” VCU President Michael Rao said in a statement.

A graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law who practiced in Washington, D.C., Baldacci has published more than 50 novels. His thriller “A Calamity of Souls” was released in March. In January, Baldacci was named the 2024 PEN/Faulkner Literary Champion, awarded for literary advocacy.

In 2002, the Baldaccis established the nonprofit Wish You Well Foundation, which funds adult literacy and education efforts.