Jennifer “J.J.” Wagner Davis Appointed Acting President of UVA Amid Federal Pressure

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA — July 1, 2025 The University of Virginia (UVA) has appointed Jennifer “J.J.” Wagner Davis, its Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, as acting president following the resignation of President Jim Ryan. This leadership transition occurs amidst federal scrutiny over the university's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.

President Ryan announced his resignation under pressure from the Trump administration, which alleged that UVA's DEI initiatives violated federal law. In a joint letter to the UVA community, outgoing Rector Robert Hardie and incoming Rector Rachel Sheridan acknowledged the community's sorrow over Ryan's departure and emphasized that Davis's appointment aligns with the university's Continuity of Operations Plan.

Davis brings extensive experience to the role, having served as UVA's chief administrative, business, and operating officer since 2018. Her responsibilities have included overseeing finance, human resources, facilities management, and public safety. Prior to her tenure at UVA, Davis held senior positions at George Mason University and the University of Delaware, as well as in Delaware's state government.

She will serve as acting president until the Board of Visitors appoints an interim president. The Board has initiated a search process to identify a permanent successor, which will involve input from faculty, students, staff, and alumni.

This leadership change highlights the ongoing national debate over DEI programs in higher education and the role of federal oversight in university governance.

*Sources: *https://evp-coo.virginia.edu/about-evp-coo