McIntire alumnus Rich Diemer has been invited to join The Raven Society, the University of Virginia’s oldest and most prestigious honorary group.
Founded in 1904, The Raven Society recognizes extraordinary contributions to the University of Virginia and to fostering academic excellence. Each semester, Ravens are elected from all schools across UVA, recognizing students, professors, administrators, and alumni for their scholarly work and dedication to University ideals.
“As a student who transferred into McIntire from Rutgers University and only attended UVA and the Comm School for two years, I had very limited knowledge of The Raven Society, let alone time to distinguish myself to merit their attention while still at school,” Diemer admits. “It was quite an honor for me to be elected for membership to the Ravens as a 45-year alum!”
Diemer was welcomed to join the honorary society in fall 2024 for the profound positive impact he has made on UVA. His involvement both at McIntire and more broadly UVA can be traced to his time with the McIntire Advisory Committee, his mentoring of students through the McIntire Mentoring Program, serving on the Board of Managers of the UVA Alumni Association, and through CAV Angels, for which he is Managing Director and Co-Founder.
His work with CAV Angels, the affinity group and not-for-profit club of private investors, entrepreneurs, and executives from across the University community, has actively contributed to the betterment of UVA and advanced the ideas of its students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. Diemer has also helped facilitate access to education for students and initiated countless networking connections, including those who have driven private, early-stage company investments in many ventures established by UVA community members.
“CAV Angels has been the platform that I am most visible and active across Grounds, and during the COVID/post-COVID period, I have volunteered my time leading CAV to the benefit of the UVA entrepreneurial ecosystem,” he says of the group that has a long-term partnership with McIntire’s Galant Challenge. The group was recently named to the Top 20 Angel Groups by the Angel Capital Association (ACA) in their Annual Funder’s Report (AFR) based on its 2023 investment activity. “We are the only Virginia-based and the only University-focused angel group on the list,” Diemer says.
Commerce students were enthusiastic about Diemer’s support and contributions to the University.
“From our very first meeting, Rich’s enthusiasm for teaching and empowering students in the world of investing stood out,” says Carson Breus (McIntire ’25). “During my three years interning with CAV Angels and traveling with him to the Angel Capital Association Summit in Las Vegas, I saw firsthand his passion for creating meaningful opportunities for students to learn and grow. Rich’s mentorship is defined by genuine care and a commitment to giving back.” Noting how Diemer “has guided countless students in navigating their academic and professional journeys, creating a deeply meaningful impact on the McIntire community,” she calls him “one of the most reliable and supportive people” during her time at UVA.
For Nicole Chang (McIntire ’25), Diemer has been an invaluable mentor. “Through his guidance and support, I gained the confidence to pursue my academic and professional goals, ultimately shaping my path into public accounting.” Recognizing his lasting impact through CAV Angels, Chang adds, “he has had such a profound influence on me and the UVA community through his mentorship and contributions. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition. Congratulations, Rich!”
Tarini Pankanti (McIntire ’26) also says that Diemer has been a fundamental part of her UVA experience and counts herself as “incredibly grateful” for his mentorship during the last three years. “As a member of the McIntire Advisory Board, he makes an impact on every student he meets and advocates for initiatives that enable them to thrive,” she says. “Thanks to Rich, I became a Venture Intern for CAV Angels and had the unique opportunity to learn about investing as well as the deal process firsthand. So much of what I know now and the wonderful connections I have made are due to Rich’s generosity and unwavering passion for helping students succeed. I am very excited for him on his well-deserved admittance to The Raven Society!”
