Resolution on the Continuing UVA Governance Crisis
January 15, 2026
WHEREAS on June 27, 2025, the Faculty Senate of the University of Virginia called on the Board of Visitors to join in condemning the demands of the US Department of Justice that led to the resignation of President Ryan; and
WHEREAS on July 11, 2025, the Faculty Senate of the University of Virginia expressed no confidence in the Board of Visitors; and
WHEREAS on November 14, 2025, the Faculty Senate called for a pause in the search for the tenth University President and for the Rector and the Vice Rector to immediately resign; and
WHEREAS the Board of Visitors’ sustained refusal to heed the opinions expressed in these resolutions or to engage with the elected faculty representatives constitutes a breakdown of shared governance; and
WHEREAS the Board of Visitors is required to adhere to the Statement of Visitor Responsibilities which requires them to “to act in the best interests of the University” and “actively safeguard principles of academic freedom for the University and its faculty and endeavor to protect the University from outside influences;” therefore be it
RESOLVED that the Faculty Senate expresses its belief that the Board of Visitors has failed both to act in the University’s best interests and to protect the University from outside influences; and be it further
RESOLVED that the Faculty Senate calls upon Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger to exercise her statutory authority, review the actions of current Board members, remove those whose conduct has fallen short of the responsibilities of Visitors, and appoint qualified individuals to fill all vacancies on the Board; and be it further
RESOLVED that the Faculty Senate calls upon that newly reconstituted Board of Visitors to review the presidential search process and determine the best path forward; and be it further
RESOLVED that the Faculty Senate will continue to work with the entire University community to address the ongoing governance crisis at the University precipitated by the actions of the Board of Visitors.
Passed January 15, 2026 by a vote of 59 for, 12 against, and 2 abstained