Higher Education

During his eight years as President and Professor of History at the University of Richmond, Ed forged a record of leadership and innovation unusual among scholars and administrators. His work furthered a commitment to excellence and access demonstrated during his years as Dean of the College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at the University of Virginia. He continues to seek new opportunities to advance the study of history and the possibilities of higher education across the United States through work with the University of Richmond and New American History and Bunk.

 
 

University of Richmond

Reflecting on Ed's dedication and impact as President, the rector of the University's Board of Trustees noted, “The university is stronger today by every possible measure—in academic excellence, fiscal health, national and international reputation, and accessibility—because of President Ayers’ thoughtful leadership and vision.”

Learn about Ed's work at UR →

 

Organization of American Historians

Ed served as President of the Organization of American Historians during the 2017-18 term.  The OAH Annual Meeting in 2018 fostered conversation about the forms in which we represent the American past.  Ed's leadership included spearheading the OAH Amplified Initiative, an innovation funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to turn a one-time event into a resource that can be used and remixed for many purposes.

Watch Ed's OAH Presidential Address →

In April 2018, Ed capped off his year as President of the OAH with a call to action, urging fellow historians to “take our discipline out into the world.”

Watch Ed at a plenary on the American West →

Together with Lisa Brooks, William Cronon, Susan Lee Johnson, Tiya Miles, and George Sánchez, Ed contributed to a session titled, “Does the West Matter? The Future of Regionalism in American History.”

 

University of Virginia

Ed dedicated 27 years of service to the University of Virginia, beginning in 1980 and culminating in the Hugh P. Kelly Professorship in American History and Dean of the College and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences from 2001-07. In 2006, he received the Thomas Jefferson Award, the University's highest honor.

 

Press about Ed's work in Higher Education