The library on the campus of the University of Virginia is named for Edward Alderman. He served as the president of the University of Virginia from 1905 to 1931.
Alderman was also a firm believer in eugenics and the superiority of the White race. Recently fliers have been posted around campus with a quote from Alderman that reads: It is settled, I believe, that this white man who has shown himself so full of courage and force shall rule in the South because he is the fittest to rule.” After the quote is the demand: “Change the Name.”
University spokesperson Wes Hester issued a statement to the student newspaper that read: “Alderman contributed to the university’s growth into one of the best public institutions of higher education in the country. Alderman also held beliefs that are contrary to our values, specifically in his support of eugenics, and he participated in events that supported racism. His tenure illustrates the University’s complicated past, a history we continue to research and contextualize today.”
University President Jim Ryan has said that the university is considering a number of building name changes on campus.
