The September issue of Virginia Magazine, the University’s official alumni publication, devotes significant attention to the resignation of President Jim Ryan and the questions it raises for UVA’s future. In the alumni response section, Jefferson Council President Joel Gardner is quoted on the qualities needed in the University’s next leader: “We’re looking for someone to […]
UVA Alumni Magazine Focuses on Leadership Transition Read More »
The truth is finally catching up with the myth. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression’s (FIRE) just published its 2026 College Free Speech Rankings, reflecting FIRE’s new focus on the actual reality on the 257 college campuses surveyed rather than stated policy. While the Ryan administration often talked the talk on free expression issues, they
UVA Tumbles in FIRE’s New Free Speech Rankings Read More »
At UVA, “shared governance” is increasingly invoked, yet its meaning remains elusive. It is not a legal concept or historical norm, but has become a rhetorical tool used to push for expanded influence in university decisions. While faculty, staff, and students have defined roles, these do not include institutional governance. Calls for “shared governance” often
The Fallacy of “Shared Governance” at UVA: Part III Read More »
The University of Virginia has not historically operated by shared governance. Since its founding as stipulated in the University’s Charter, decision-making authority has rested exclusively with the Board of Visitors, the legally designated body responsible for UVA’s governance. Despite this longstanding structural reality, recent statements from various University groups have implied that shared governance has
The Fallacy of “Shared Governance” at UVA : Part II Read More »
Recently at the University, a number of groups have vocally espoused the position that “shared governance” has been a cornerstone of UVA life and institutional integrity— a notion that invokes collaboration between the Board of Visitors, administration, faculty, and students. Yet the concept of shared governance as espoused is an ephemeral one, with no real foundation
The Fallacy of “Shared Governance” at UVA : Part I Read More »
Today’s Senate Committee on Privileges and Elections in the Virginia General Assembly was a complete and utter mockery of representative government, more similar to Russia than the USA. That the Chair allowed only three brief remarks and then proceeded to a vote without allowing any discussion or debate is deeply troubling and undermines the core
This interview addresses the growing politicization of University life, reflected most clearly in the push for a politicized version of “shared governance” in UVA’s presidential search. Joel Gardner, president of The Jefferson Council, explains how the so-called shared governance campaign is less about balance and more about consolidating ideological control of the University. The recent
Over the last half-century, presidential search committees at UVA have tended to follow an order that has remained relatively similar: It is led by the Board of Visitors (BOV) while including other members of the University community. This is the case with the current search committee assembled to replace Jim Ryan, who resigned in June.
Historical Precedent and Law Refute Criticism of UVA Board’s Presidential Search Read More »
Jefferson Council President Joel Gardner’s interview with WUVA on the future of UVA. “The agenda of the University of Virginia should be to have no agenda” ~ Joel Gardner on WUVA. Check out the rest of his remarks on the Future of UVA.
Future of UVA: What’s Next? Read More »