As UMW’s president from 1983 to 2006, William M. Anderson Jr. was the longest serving president of any four-year public college in the Commonwealth at the time of his retirement. Anderson, who passed away this past weekend, is seen here officiating Mary Washington’s 2006 Commencement ceremony.
The University of Mary Washington community mourns the passing this past weekend of former President William M. Anderson Jr., who served as UMW’s president from 1983 to 2006. His 23-year tenure—the longest of any public university president in Virginia at the time—transformed Mary Washington from a respected liberal arts college into a nationally recognized university of distinction.
News of President Anderson’s passing has prompted an outpouring of memories and tributes from alumni, faculty, staff and community members, reflecting on the impact he had during his tenure. President Anderson’s recently published Obituary contains additional details on his life and legacy, as well as options for those wishing to express condolences, including memorial tree planing and floral tributes.
“President Anderson’s visionary leadership laid the foundation for the University of Mary Washington as we know it today. His commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and student success continues to shape our mission and inspire our work,” said UMW President Troy Paino.
When President Anderson took office in 1983, he was the youngest president of any four-year public college in the Commonwealth. By the time he retired in 2006, he had overseen more than $120 million in capital improvements, including the construction of a new library, science center, student and alumni centers, art gallery, and multiple residence halls, including the purchase of the UMW Apartments. He championed the creation of the Stafford Campus, a milestone that factored into Mary Washington’s elevation to university status in 2004. Read more.