UVA’s Class of 2027 Revives Yearbook Tradition with “The Colonnade”

UVA’s Yearbook Tradition Revived with a New Twist

The University of Virginia is witnessing the return of its yearbook tradition with a fresh identity. The Class of 2027 has introduced “The Colonnade,” marking a new era for the university’s annual publication.

Jackson Sleadd, the class president, found inspiration in the past while exploring old yearbooks at Shannon Library. He stumbled upon several editions of “Corks and Curls,” UVA’s original yearbook that first began in 1888 but ceased in 2008 with the rise of social media. A brief attempt to revive it occurred in 2015, but it didn’t sustain. “Should we bring it back?” Sleadd pondered as he gathered 20 to 30 copies being distributed by the Alumni Association.

Colin Kelly, a fourth-year student, has taken on the role of editor-in-chief for “The Colonnade.” He explained the extensive research involved: “We spent, I want to say, six months looking into, ‘Was it feasible to do a yearbook again? Is this something people would be interested in?’ And if it was, ‘how many copies?’”

The team sought to ensure the yearbook’s quality, balancing a robust 336-page format with affordability. Initially priced at $80 during Family Weekend, the cost will increase to $85 after Sunday. Books are scheduled for delivery before Finals Weekend, with plans for a pre-graduation signing event tentatively called “Yearbook on the Lawn” (YOTL), echoing popular UVA traditions.

The yearbook’s new name, “The Colonnade,” pays tribute to UVA’s iconic architecture, particularly the columns that adorn the Lawn and other significant buildings. Kelly emphasized the symbolic value of this choice.

Recently, hundreds of students participated in a free photo session outside Pavilion I, with options like dickies, orange-and-blue ties, blue blazers, or drapes and pearls. Due to high demand, a follow-up session is planned for spring, with updates to be shared via their Instagram account.

Sleadd reflected on the shift back to tangible keepsakes: “Since the abundance of social media has gotten so profound, I think people are kind of now shifting away from it and looking toward more physical, real, tangible experiences and memories.” He expressed that a physical yearbook offers a meaningful, tactile experience, contrasting the ephemeral nature of digital memories.