David C. Hardesty, Jr.

David C. Hardesty, Jr., Rhodes Scholar (1967), President Emeritus and Professor of Law, was president of West Virginia University from 1995-2007. He teaches legal ethics, legislative process, and bill drafting. He also directs the West Virginia Law Institute, and law reform body housed at the College of law. He holds degrees from West Virginia University, Oxford University, and Harvard Law School.

Prior to becoming president, Professor Hardesty practiced law with the firm of Bowles Rice, a regional firm, in its Charleston, West Virginia office. His practice focused on representation of corporations, including banks and manufacturers, and not for profit entities. He was State Tax Commissioner of West Virginia during Senator Jay Rockefeller’s first term as governor (1977-1980). He has been an active volunteer for major charitable and civic organizations in West Virginia throughout his career.

President Hardesty has spoken widely on subjects related to his teaching subjects, higher education, intercollegiate athletics, and the general subject of leadership, including change management. He and his wife Susan, are co-authors of Leading, a book that chronicles their years as President and First Lady of West Virginia University.