Mark T. Bowles Appointed to U.Va. Board of Visitors

Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe has announced the appointment of Mark T. Bowles to the University of Virginia’s Board of Visitors. Bowles, of Goochland, will begin his one-year term July 1, filling the unexpired term of Dr. Edward D. Miller, who resigned from the board. Bowles will be eligible for reappointment to two full four-year terms.

“On behalf of the Board of Visitors, I welcome Mark and look forward to working with him,” Rector George Keith Martin said. “Mark’s keen insights into higher education, public policy and law will benefit the University as we address the numerous opportunities before this exceptional institution.”

“Gov. McAuliffe’s appointment of Mark Bowles to the University of Virginia Board of Visitors is great news for the U.Va. family,” U.Va. President Teresa A. Sullivan said. “Mr. Bowles is an ardent supporter of public higher education within the commonwealth and his experience in the public and private sectors will serve the University well. I look forward to working with him and the entire Board of Visitors as we continue to advance excellence in education, patient care, research and public service.”

Bowles is an executive vice president of McGuireWoods Consulting LLC and a partner with McGuireWoods LLP. As a lawyer and consultant, his practice focuses on providing strategic counsel and policy advice to businesses and organizations with issues before Virginia’s legislature and regulatory agencies. In addition, Bowles coordinates and works closely with McGuireWoods Consulting offices in the seven state capitals where the firm has a presence. His practice includes government relations and public affairs, and he works with a variety of clients on issues including health care, energy, technology, higher education and environmental law.

Bowles helped to gain start-up funding and appropriation for U.Va.’s Center for Politics, which has become a national leader in promoting political and civics education for students at every level.

“I am honored to serve the University of Virginia as a member of the Board of Visitors,” Bowles said. “This is an exciting time for U.Va. and I am eager to work to advance the University’s mission.”

Bowles has led state, regional and national public policy efforts on behalf of McGuireWoods Consulting clients. Bowles has also been engaged in a number of successful pro bono legislative initiatives, including “Ashley’s Law” – a bill that requires emergency responders to use their flashing lights and sirens when entering an intersection against a red light or else yield to traffic – and establishing the Federation of Virginia Food Banks and the Tangier Island Free Clinic. He served on the James Madison University Board of Visitors from 2003 until 2011.

Bowles earned a bachelor’s degree from James Madison University and law degree from the University of Richmond.

Martin, Sullivan and Dr. Richard P. Shannon, U.Va.’s executive vice president for health affairs, expressed their gratitude for Miller’s service.

“My colleagues and I appreciated the expertise and guidance he brought to our discussions,” Martin said. “Ed’s vast knowledge and experience in the area of academic medicine provided particular value.”

Sullivan added, “The University benefitted from Dr. Miller’s sage advice and counsel, particularly as it relates to the organization and operations of our academic medical center, our research enterprise and our commitment to patient care and safety. We wish him and his wife Lynne all the best in their future endeavors.”

“During his tenure on the Medical Center Operating Board, Dr. Miller’s experience and expertise in operating an academic medical center brought valuable guidance to our deliberations and discussions,” Shannon said. “His strong advocacy for the University of Virginia Health System and our missions of high-quality patient care, research and education is greatly appreciated.”

Media Contact

Anthony P. de Bruyn

Office of University Communications