George Keith Martin becomes the first African American rector of the University of Virginia

George Keith Martin. PHOTO/University of Virginia

The University of Virginia (U.Va) has named its first African American rector.

George Keith Martin, an alumnus of the university, and Richmond attorney began his two-year term earlier this week.

He succeeds Helen E. Dragas, who concludes her term as rector having served as the first woman in that role in U.Va. history.

“This University has important work ahead, including the implementation of a new strategic plan, a new financial model and the everyday priority of ensuring that U.Va. provides the best education possible to our students and the best care possible to patients,” Martin said. “I am grateful to my colleagues who have entrusted me with this privilege to serve as rector. It truly is an honor, and I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the board, the president and her team to move U.Va. forward.”

“I congratulate George Martin and look forward to working closely with him and the entire board in the coming years,” U.Va. President Teresa A. Sullivan said. “We are fortunate to have so many people who care deeply about this University in positions of leadership at such an important time.”

Martin is managing partner at McGuireWoods LLP’s Richmond office, the firm’s largest. A Richmond native who currently lives in Hanover County with his wife and three daughters, Martin received his law degree from the Howard University School of Law in 1978. He serves on the board of Regent University School of Law and has served on the James Madison University board, as well as the Virginia Board of Bar Examiners and the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Higher Education.

Source: University of Virginia