Interim President Mahoney Addresses U.Va. Faculty Senate: Key Insights and Updates

The Faculty Senate recently expressed its growing concern about the University Board of Visitors during a meeting on Friday. Their worries mainly centered on the search for a permanent president and the upcoming search for an executive vice president and provost. They also listened to Interim President Paul G. Mahoney, who supported the Senate’s resolution to uphold academic freedom and the University’s values.

Chair Jeri Seidman opened the meeting by discussing a compliance review by the University Counsel. This review follows inquiries from the Department of Justice regarding the University’s diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. Seidman noted that she expected responses from University Counsel Cliff Iler soon, so she asked senators not to question Mahoney about the compliance review to keep the meeting focused.

When Mahoney spoke, he emphasized the importance of academic freedom. “It’s a core value of the University,” he said. He also mentioned advancements, including the construction of the Paul and Diane Manning Institute for Biotechnology.

Politics Professor James D. Savage raised a critical point during the Q&A, asking about federal research funding, which has been threatened due to compliance issues. Mahoney explained that the future of this funding relies on how the ongoing compliance review concludes.

Nursing Professor Kimberly D. Acquaviva asked Mahoney if he had met with Donald Trump since taking office. He reassured the faculty that he had not.

Data Science Professor Paul B. Perrin expressed concern about the search for the new provost and whether the interim leadership would attract top-tier candidates. Mahoney confirmed there is currently no active search but plans to begin one this fall. He believes the position remains highly desirable.

After Mahoney’s Q&A, Interim Provost Brie Gertler spoke about her commitment to academic freedom and addressed concerns raised by faculty. She assured them that they could rely on University Counsel for defense against challenges to their work.

Acquaviva also highlighted the message sent by Mahoney potentially moving into Carr’s Hill, the president’s traditional residence. She worried this could discourage strong candidates from applying for the presidency.

On the other hand, Chief Medical Officer Meredith Hayden supported Mahoney’s decision to occupy Carr’s Hill, noting that maintaining a visible leadership presence can stabilize student trust.

The meeting concluded with the unanimous passage of a resolution reaffirming the Faculty Senate’s commitment to the University’s mission during this turbulent leadership transition. This underscores the uncertainty felt among faculty and staff as the University navigates its challenges.

The Senate’s executive council plans to meet on September 26, with a full Faculty meeting scheduled for October 3. This ongoing dialogue reflects a campus grappling with significant change and a strong desire to uphold its foundational values during uncertain times.

For further details on this situation, you can read more about the Faculty Senate’s discussions here.

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