During a meeting of the full Board of Visitors Friday, Interim University President Paul Mahoney shared with the Board that he had personally “engaged in discussion” with Justice Department officials.
Even if Ryan had felt he had a strong case against the Justice Department’s investigations, would the Virginia legal system have allowed him to seek supportive legal counsel?
Board of Visitors Rector Rachel Sheridan also introduced external search firm Isaacson, Miller, which will assist the committee in their search for the University’s next permanent president.
![“How can I have trust [in the Board] if I don't even know how they incorporated [students'] feedback?” Student Council President Clay Dickerson said in an interview.](https://snworksceo.imgix.net/cav/8221f397-1c24-4ef7-8478-ab26c9257190.sized-1000x1000.jpg?w=1000&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop&crop=faces&facepad=3&auto=format)
According to the resolution, the Board failed to respond to Student Council’s July 15 requests and has ignored student leaders’ concern with the current selection process.
This document, titled “U.Va. Guidance for Ensuring Compliance with Civil Rights Law,” reveals that compliance reviews were already underway prior to former University President Jim Ryan’s resignation.
Mahoney’s unanimous appointment as interim comes amidst ongoing negotiations between the Board and the Department of Justice surrounding allegations that the University has not adhered to anti-discrimination civil rights laws.
The Jefferson Council, a conservative alumni group, has advocated for Ryan’s removal for years, and now, Jefferson Council President Joel Gardner hopes that this “turning point” is taken advantage of.
“Time is running short, and the Department’s patience is wearing thin,” the final letter read
The appointees officially mark the beginning of an entirely Youngkin-appointed Board.
The email did not specify when President Ryan would officially step down from his position, although when he announced his resignation he noted that he would step down no later than August 15.
