The University recently announced the creation of a professorship at the Miller Center of Public Affairs named in honor of James R. Schlesinger, an economics professor who taught at the University from 1955 until 1963.
Schlesinger endowed the professorship himself, donating about $2 million, according to Lisa Todorovich, director of external relations at the Miller Center.
The individual who fills the position of the James R. Schlesinger Distinguished Professorship will teach, participate in the academic programs at the Miller Center and doindependent research, Todorovich added.
Schlesinger, who could not be reached for comment, "was interested in creating a professorship that would allow people who had some practical experience in the public sector [to] teach classes [and] participate in academic programs in the Miller Center," Todorovich said.
The Miller Center will work with the history and politics departments to screen applicants, said Mike Mullen, assistant director for finance and program analysis at the Miller Center. Politics Department Chairs Sid Milkis and Jeff Legro and History Department Chairs Brian Balogh and Mel Leffler will participate in the selection process, Mullen added.
"I think the people who would be the right ones for that position would obviously have some fantastic practical experience and expertise in large national issues," Todorovich said.
According to a press release, Schlesinger received his bachelor's degree from Harvard University in 1950; he earned his master's in 1952 and his Ph.D. in 1956 from Harvard as well. A published author, Schlesinger also worked as the CIA director, served as Secretary of Defense for Nixon from 1973-1975 and worked as the first Secretary of Energy under Carter from 1977-1979, according to the release.
Schlesinger also works as a consultant for the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security as well as the State Department, Todorovich added.
"I think he was really interested in creating a professorship that would focus on things he built his career on," said Todorovich.
Todorovich also said Schlesinger wants to give back tothe University community.
"Dr. Schlesinger had really loved U.Va. He loved his experiences here and thought highly of the University and wanted to do something that gave back."
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