Here’s a bold statement: the University of Virginia (UVA) has been missing out on the leadership it truly deserves. But what if I told you there’s a candidate who could have—and still could—transform the university’s trajectory? Back in 2017, I penned an op-ed in the Charlottesville Daily Progress advocating for Professor Larry Sabato to become UVA’s ninth president. Instead, the board chose Jim Ryan. Fast forward to today, and the seemingly endless scandals plaguing UVA make it clear: Sabato was—and remains—the right choice.
And this is the part most people miss: Sabato isn’t just a professor; he’s a UVA icon. His sharp political commentary, exceptional teaching, award-winning research, and generous financial contributions to the university speak volumes about his dedication. Yet, the board overlooked him. Now, with UVA’s leadership once again in question, it’s time to revisit this missed opportunity.
Let’s talk about the current president, Scott Beardsley. Here’s where it gets controversial: I believe Beardsley is unfit to lead UVA. Yes, that’s a strong statement, but hear me out. First, his appointment may be legally void because the board that selected him failed to comply with Virginia’s statutory membership requirements. But even setting that aside, Beardsley’s track record raises serious concerns.
As dean of UVA’s business school, he championed Jim Ryan’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) vision—a vision that landed UVA in hot water with the federal government. He’s also been accused of strategically reshaping his public image, scrubbing his CV of pro-DEI activities and making statements that seem more about career advancement than genuine leadership. Is this the kind of integrity we want at the helm of a university built on a nearly two-century-old Honor System?
It gets worse. A Augusta Free Press article revealed a pattern of resume embellishments, including a Ph.D. dissertation co-authored by his committee chair, misleading claims about peer-reviewed publications, and inflated numbers of academic works. If a student did this, they’d face expulsion. Yet, Beardsley remains in office.
But here’s the real kicker: Beardsley’s contract might not just be void due to the board’s illegal constitution—it could also violate tax laws, just like Ryan’s did. And his disingenuous statements about why he wanted the presidency? Those could be grounds for termination “for cause.”
Now, imagine if the board had chosen Larry Sabato in 2017. A Norfolk native with deep ties to Virginia, Sabato embodies the values and excellence UVA strives for. His leadership could have—and still can—steer the university away from scandal and toward a brighter future.
Here’s my challenge to you: Is Beardsley the leader UVA needs, or is it time to bring in someone like Sabato, whose integrity and achievements are beyond question? Let’s not wait for another scandal to force our hand. The new board should appoint Sabato now—before it’s too late.
Scott Douglas Gerber, a UVA alumnus with a doctorate and Juris Doctor from the university, is the author of The Trafficker, published in January. He remains a vocal advocate for UVA’s potential and its need for leadership that truly honors its legacy.
