Launch Week kicks off each student’s MBA journey here at Darden. Students begin classes, meet their learning teams and explore Charlottesville. We caught up with the incoming Executive MBA Class of 2026 to see how the week went.
Peyton Allan
Executive MBA ’26
“The best word I can think of to describe the first week of the Executive MBA program is transformative.
The program team left no stone unturned. Every single detail was planned to perfection to curate the most inclusive and inviting experience (thank you!!!). I can confidently say that my class is the most diverse group of people I have ever had the honor of being a part of, and because of that my perspective is and will continue to be transformed. This was also my first time in Virginia and I loved exploring campus and Charlottesville with classmates doing my favorite activity – finding great places to eat amazing food! Finally, carving out the time to self-reflect was such a privilege during LR1 that I am very grateful for.”
Nicolas Rubio Beltran
Executive MBA ’26
“My first week at Darden was full of pleasant surprises. For starters, the facilities, both in Cville and SFG (Sands Family Grounds), are hard to beat, and a great boost in just my first hours during the residency. The first residency sets the tone for the program. It was very encouraging to find myself surrounded by ambitious classmates that not only care for their own expectations from the program, but are always ready to listen, and help, if possible, our teammates.
The level of commitment is excellent. As the days passed, it became clear that everyone is willing to put in the hours of pre-work for class. The recurring message I received from every single classmate was that they were here because they wanted more from life, and knew Darden could help them figure out their next steps. Thus, the residency helps to start creating the Darden environment where we can lean on each other’s learnings and experiences to reach our true potential in life.”
Rachael Goldenberg
Executive MBA ’26
“Leadership Residency 1 (LR1) was a whirlwind of fun. My partner Anna and I arrived in Charlottesville early to explore the nature, history, and (of course) the wineries. Then once classes started the energy revved up to 100 with so many new people to meet, topics to learn and self-reflection to do. I can’t wait to put all this learning into action as we head into regular class schedules with our learning teams. But first maybe a quick nap?”
Haley Talbot
Executive MBA ’26
“The opportunity to begin my Darden journey with a full week dedicated to bonding with new classmates and investing in myself is something I will never forget.
The uncertainty of what I was heading into was immediately assuaged when smiling faces greeted me at First Coffee on Monday and then again each morning. I enjoyed fulsome conversations with nearly all of my 118 new friends in the halls after class, during a scavenger hunt on grounds and exploring Charlottesville at night.
The classroom atmosphere is incredibly refreshing. The professors at Darden foster a vulnerable and welcoming learning atmosphere that set a perfect foundation for our journey to come. The experience of LR1 left me feeling stretched mentally, affirmed in my own strengths and ready to begin the program in Rosslyn, VA.”
Courtesy of Haley Talbot.
Courtesy of Nicolas Rubio Beltran.
Courtesy of Haley Talbot.
Courtesy of Haley Talbot.
Courtesy of Nicolas Rubio Beltran.
Courtesy of Peyton Allan.
Courtesy of Nicolas Rubio Beltran.
Courtesy of Nicolas Rubio Beltran.
Courtesy of Peyton Allan.
