In Memoriam: President William M. Anderson Jr. (UMW President 1983-2006)

The University of Mary Washington community mourns the passing this 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.

“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.

President Anderson’s vision extended beyond bricks and mortar. He was a passionate advocate for academic excellence, faculty development, and student engagement. Under his leadership, UMW launched signature programs such as the Great Lives lecture series. He also spearheaded the installation of a campus-wide fiber-optic network, ensuring that every classroom and residence hall was equipped with cutting-edge technology.

His commitment to community was equally profound. President Anderson forged strong ties with local businesses, particularly as he served as president of the Chamber of Commerce, and brought the Small Business Development Center to campus. He also established the Community Outreach and Resources (COAR) program, which continues to inspire student volunteerism and civic engagement.

Perhaps most enduring is the culture of excellence and service he cultivated. During his presidency, UMW’s endowment grew from $1.3 million to $24.5 million, enabling expanded opportunities for students and faculty alike. His leadership elevated the University’s national profile.

Anderson receives a Doctorate of Humane Letters, the honorary degree he was awarded during UMW’s 2006 Commencement in recognition of his time as president.

Anderson speaks during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Anderson Convocation Center, the athletic facility named in his honor, in August 2011. Photo by Norm Shafer.

President Anderson at the dedication of the Anderson Convocation Center, 2011. Photo by Norm Shafer.

His entire professional career was devoted to higher education. A native of South Boston, Virginia, he holds a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s degree from West Virginia College of Graduate Studies, and a doctorate from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.  He served as coordinator of academic programs and enrollment research for the Virginia State Council of Higher Education. Then, for a period of four years, he served as director of research and planning for the West Virginia Board of Regents. In 1976 he became executive vice president at Mary Washington before being named president in 1983.

During his last commencement ceremony in 2006, President Anderson was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in recognition of his time as president, and the UMW Board of Visitors unanimously approved a resolution to name the Anderson Convocation Center in his honor. He also was presented with a Washington Medallion, which recognizes extraordinary service to the University that has made a lasting and indelible impact.

For more information, see President Anderson’s bio online or the obituary that includes further information.