CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Today, July 11, marks the final day for Jim Ryan as president of the University of Virginia, closing a seven-year chapter characterized by his efforts to connect the university more deeply with the broader Charlottesville community. Two weeks ago, Ryan submitted his resignation to the Board of Visitors. Vice President J. Davis will now step in as acting president. 

On Morning News, longtime friend and community leader Mark Lorenzoni shared personal reflections on Ryan’s impact. “He used his gift, his talent, his passion of running to bring people together,” Lorenzoni said. One of Ryan’s standout initiatives was creating the President’s Council, a group of university and community leaders tasked with addressing key local issues like gun violence. “He intentionally picked people that weren’t necessarily happy about UVA’s relationship with the community,” Lorenzoni recalled, emphasizing Ryan’s desire to create honest dialogue and build trust. 

In the wake of Ryan’s resignation, students and community members organized a “Run with Jim” pop-up event and T-shirt fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting causes he cares deeply about, including the Free Clinic, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Special Olympics. “It gives them something tangible, I know it doesn’t make the pain go away for people, but it does remind them this is what this guy was about. This is how he wants to be remembered,” Lorenzoni said. As Ryan transitions back to teaching law, his legacy of community-building and connection remains strong across Grounds and beyond. 

Listen to the full conversation here: