The Visitors of James Madison University is pleased to welcome our seventh president—Dr. Jim Schmidt—to our beloved university, effective July 1, 2025.
The board and President Schmidt engaged in a meaningful and wide-ranging conversation regarding their shared goals for the future of James Madison in preparation for his arrival. In addition to discussions with board members, President Schmidt will spend considerable time listening to our faculty, students, staff, alumni and valued partners before finalizing the university’s strategic priorities and incorporating them into our new strategic plan.
We strongly agree that meeting our vision for JMU requires that we:
- Prioritize the exceptional student experience, preparation and success for which JMU is already known and which sets us apart.
- Build upon our successful partnerships throughout the community and the Commonwealth of Virginia, and expand our collaborations to create new opportunities.
- Market our unique value proposition and attract additional funding.
- Accelerate and support a culture of innovation.
- Advance the pursuit of national prominence.
The Board of Visitors looks forward to working closely with President Schmidt as we approach this exciting new chapter in JMU history.
- Ms. Suzanne S. Obenshain, Rector
- Lieutenant Colonel Jeff W. Bolander
- Mr. Larry W. Caudle
- Ms. Teresa L. Edwards, Vice Rector
- Ms. Carly S. Fiorina
- Mr. Thomas Galati
- The Honorable Kay Coles James
- Mr. David A. Rexrode
- Mr. Steven C. Smith
- Mr. Michael A. Stoltzfus
- Ms. Nikki Thacker
- Mr. Jack L. White
- Ms. Nicole P. Wood
Board of Visitors
