Board of Visitors minutes October 6, 1989 | ||
STATEMENT ON ROBERT M. O'NEIL'S ANNOUNCEMENT OF INTENTION TO STEP DOWN FROM THE PRESIDENCY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
Joshua P. Darden, Jr. Rector of the University of Virginia October 6, 1989
The Board of Visitors and I view this day with a mixture of emotions. We have accepted news of Mr. O'Neil's intention to step down with understanding, because we know the opportunity before him is one of nearly limitless potential. We are proud of Mr. O'Neil's legacy -- the health of the University of Virginia. This summer I said that the University enjoys what arguably is the highest stature of its history in many areas of activity, from academic programming to the quality of student life. That remains true.
We are lucky to have Bob O'Neil for at least another academic year and perhaps longer -- he has much he wants to complete and we know he will approach the remaining period of his presidency with his usual energy and dedication.
We are pleased that his new post will keep him in the University community, consistent with a tradition for former University of Virginia presidents remaining on the faculty.
But mostly we are grateful. The integrity, compassion, and grace demonstrated by Bob and Karen O'Neil, as well as Liza, Peter, David, and Ben O'Neil, has been a model of University leadership. But we are happy that we don't have to say good-bye too soon. At this point, we simply want to acknowledge our appreciation, and prepare to move ahead to the important work that faces the University in the year ahead.
Board of Visitors minutes October 6, 1989 | ||