15. Michael Rao

Virginia Commonwealth University President

A year after taking over as president of Virginia Commonwealth University, the shake-up is on. Michael Rao, who replaced the dictatorial Eugene Trani (No. 26), hired former Gov. Tim Kaine's (No. 36) chief of staff Wayne Turnage as his own chief of staff in January and removed Provost Stephen Gottfredson in March. Rao has yet to hire a new provost, but the changes, along with new business school dean Ed Grier and VCU Police Chief John Venuti, are a welcome sign. Trani, whom sources say was tinkering too much in retirement, seems to have gotten the message.

Next: 16. John A. Luke Jr. –>

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