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Recent Speeches & Writings

Speech Archives

2012 | 2011 | 2010

UVa’s Sense of Place - Past, Present, Future

June 8, 2013

Welcome, and thank you all for coming to Charlottesville for Reunions Weekend. I know that our alumni and their families have limited time and limited budgets for travel, so I’m grateful that you decided to spend this time with us. UVa alumni come to Reunions in great numbers, and your attraction to the University seems to grow over the years. The classes represented at this year’s Reunions — classes from 1968 to 2008 that end in 3s and 8s — have come back in stronger and stronger numbers for each successive Reunion gathering. Your attendance at your 2013 Reunions is about 25% larger than five years ago, and about 70% larger than 10 years ago. More.

Campaign Reaches $3 Billion Goal

May 20, 2013

During the University's Final Exercises on Sunday, I made an exciting announcement to thousands of students and families assembled on the Lawn, and today I want to share the same news with you. The Campaign for the University of Virginia has surpassed its $3 billion campaign goal. More.

Statement Regarding Hateful Speech on Beta Bridge

May 2, 2013

On the morning of Wednesday, May 1, a display of hate and bias was discovered painted on Beta Bridge. The individuals responsible for this derogatory message were trying to intimidate and isolate members of our University community. We reject this expression of hatred, and we stand by the University's commitment to promote an inclusive and welcoming environment that embraces the full spectrum of human attributes, perspectives, and disciplines. More.

Building a Cathedral: Leadership in American Higher Education

April 17, 2013

Good evening. I’m delighted to have the opportunity to deliver this year’s “Pat Jackson Lecture.” The lecture is named for a former PRSA President and one of the creative forces behind the Counselors to Higher Education professional-interest section. So it’s an honor for me to join the list of distinguished speakers who have addressed your group as part of this lecture series. More.

Honoring victims at Virginia Tech and Boston

April 16, 2013

To members of the University community: Gov. Robert McDonnell has issued a proclamation recognizing April 16 as Virginia Tech Remembrance Day in the Commonwealth. More

A Founder's Perspective: Today's UVa through Jefferson's Eyes

April 11, 2013

Over the next 30 minutes or so, I'd like you to join me in pondering the following question: "What would Thomas Jefferson think of the University of Virginia if he returned today?" What would he think of us, if he talked to students and faculty, strolled the Grounds, sat in on classes, visited our research labs and art studios? Would he be pleased? Astonished? Full Speech (pdf)

Richmond Bar Association (RBA) Lunch Meeting

March 21, 2013

Good afternoon, everyone. Craig: Thank you for the kind introduction. To get started, I’m curious to see how many of you are UVa alumni, or parents of current or former UVa students — can we have a show of hands? More

2012 President's Report

March 20, 2013

I write to share with you the 2012 President's Report, a comprehensive look at University activities over the past year as well as our plans for the years ahead. The report provides an overview of our work in three major sections: At a Glance, Shaping the Future, and Year in Review. More.

The Women's Center 27th Annual Leadership Conference: "The Power of Purpose"

March 9, 2013

First of all, thank you for that introduction, thank you for recognizing me today with your Leadership Award, and thank you for what you do in the Washington area to help women lead more vital and fulfilled lives.  You have assembled an exciting program today with an amazing audience. More

St. Paul’s Luncheon Speaker Series

February 15, 2013

Reverend Richardson, thank you for the introduction, and thank you for inviting me to participate in the St. Paul’s luncheon speaker series. I know that many of you here today have some connection to UVa — either as faculty, staff, or students, or as neighbors in the surrounding area. A common bond we share is that all of us are members of a close-knit community. More

Staying healthy during flu season

January 14, 2013

As the spring semester begins today, we find ourselves in the thick of flu season. The illness is widespread in many states, and a few states, including New York, have declared public health emergencies. Our students, faculty, and staff who have traveled near and far during the holidays will be returning to Charlottesville, and some will be carrying the flu virus as they return to the Grounds. More

Community MLK Celebration

January 10, 2013

As we begin the new year, I invite you to participate in the 2013 Community MLK Celebration in January and early February. Members of the University and Charlottesville communities will gather to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and his message of justice, empowerment, equality, and peace. More