Paul Brandon Barringer

Paul Brandon Barringer (August 31, 1857 – October 9, 1941) was an American physician, geologist, and academic administrator. He served as the seventh President of the University of Virginia from 1904 to 1919.

During his presidency, Barringer worked to modernize the University of Virginia, introducing the study of the humanities, social sciences, and modern languages. He also implemented a reorganization of the medical school, which led to significant improvements in research and clinical practice.

Yes, Barringer had a brief involvement in politics. In 1902, he was appointed as the Democratic nominee for the United States Senate by the Virginia General Assembly, but he declined the nomination.

Before becoming President of the University of Virginia, Barringer served as the Chair of the Faculty at the University of Texas from 1892 to 1894. He also held roles as professor of geology and paleontology at several institutions, including the University of Virginia, University of Texas, and Johns Hopkins University.

Barringer received numerous academic honors throughout his career, including an honorary doctor of laws degree from Baylor University in 1891 and an honorary doctor of science degree from the University of North Carolina in 1932.