Abigail Gruener (A&S '25)

Why Promotions?

I chose Promotions because I have always wanted to try a hands-on experience in all aspects of marketing. As an Economics student, I have rarely learned about the creative side of marketing and branding. Promotions seemed like a great opportunity for that!

Relevant work experience?

I am currently a Communications Intern for Community Climate Collaborative, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing Charlottesville’s greenhouse emissions. I am working with C3 to update their website, help with news correspondence, and promote their organization through social media.

Relevant skill set?

I hope to gain a more relevant skill set for marketing through Promotions. Otherwise, I have experience with Excel, Stata, Canva, Photoshop, and anything related to Google’s platforms.

Extracurricular activities?

I am the Co-President of SWAP at UVA with fellow Promotions team member Abby Kupstas. SWAP is a CIO dedicated to providing free clothing to students on Grounds. We host semiannual clothing swaps, and in spring 2024, we had over 2,650 donated articles of clothing. I am a volunteer Camp Counselor with Camp Kesem, a free summer camp for kids whose parents have cancer, are in remission, or have passed away. I am also a member of Student Disability Alliance. This summer, I am taking a beginner’s running class and tennis lessons!

Career aspiration?

I am not entirely sure what I want to do after I graduate. My dream job would be to live on a small farm tending to my garden and obscure animals, such as llamas and rabbits. However, I know I want to use my degrees in some way before that goal is accomplished. I am interested in working for a venture capital company dedicated to helping others, specifically nonprofits.

Course recommendations?

I recommend HIUS 3261: History of the American West because it is taught by Professor Alan Taylor. He has won the Pulitzer Prize twice and is an incredible lecturer.

If I could live as someone else for the day, it would be ________.

Jacqueline Novogratz. She is the founder of Acumen, a global nonprofit that addresses poverty through entrepreneurial progress. She also studied Econ at UVA!

Fun fact:

I have summited 15 mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park.