A Leader to Start our Third Century

James E. Ryan

On Sept. 15, 2017, the University of Virginia Board of Visitors selected James Ryan as the University’s next president. A respected and accomplished educator and legal scholar, Ryan earned his law degree from UVA and previously served on the School of Law faculty for 15 years. From 2013 to 2018, he served as dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Charles William Eliot Professor of Education.

“The University of Virginia has occupied a special place in my heart since the day I first stepped on Grounds. Playing a role in the extraordinary work of this University community is deeply humbling, and an opportunity that I will strive every day to honor.”
James Ryan
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Video: Getting to Know President James Ryan

Statements on James Ryan’s Appointment

Rector of the BOV

Frank M. “Rusty” Conner III

“Jim Ryan brings an exceptional blend of talent, experience, energy and vision to the University of Virginia at a time when the institution stands ready to chart a course for continued excellence into our third century.”

Former Rector of the BOV

William Goodwin Jr.

“Jim Ryan is a person of great integrity who embodies the values at the core of the University. I’m delighted that he will be representing UVA and leading this great university to even bigger and better things for the future.”

Former President of Harvard University

Drew Gilpin Faust

“Jim Ryan elevated the Harvard Graduate School of Education with an effective combination of academic passion and organizational expertise. He excels at developing institutional vision, aligning strategies with their resources and, most importantly, inspiring others to join together to make it happen. He will be greatly missed at Harvard, but we look forward to following his successes at UVA.”