Scott C. Beardsley took office as the University of Virginia’s 10th president on Jan. 1, 2026. At the time of the Board of Visitors’ unanimous vote to select Beardsley on Dec. 19, 2025, he was the University’s longest-serving among active deans. He has led the Darden School of Business, consistently ranked among the top business schools in the world and #1 by Financial Times. As dean, he elevated Darden’s stellar reputation to new heights. Now, he brings the inspiration and vision of a global thought leader to all of Grounds and beyond. Beardsley focuses on building authentic relationships that not only withstand but benefit from our rapidly changing world and serve our shared humanity.
Drawing on a tradition from his years as dean of the Darden School of Business, Beardsley brought “First Coffee” to the Office of the President.
After a robust search, the University’s Board of Visitors selects the dean of the Darden School of Business to lead UVA.
From delivering newspapers in frigid Alaska to roaming the globe for an international company, Beardsley has tackled many jobs. His next one will be leading UVA.
After electing Scott Beardsley as the University of Virginia’s 10th president, the Board of Visitors called on Wahoos to “move forward with unity, purpose, and pride.”
