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For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Joe Brenckle
media@AGB.org
WASHINGTON, DC (January 28, 2026)—The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) announced today that Ross Mugler will serve as the president and CEO of the organization, which he has led in an interim capacity since 2025.
Mugler, who served more than 32 years as commissioner of revenue for the City of Hampton, VA, was appointed to the Old Dominion University Board of Visitors by five different governors of Virginia, making him the longest serving trustee of a single institution in the state. Additionally, he served as rector from 2008–10. He also serves on the Virginia Peninsula Community College Education Foundation.
“Ross has been steeped in governance issues for decades through his service to ODU, his membership in AGB, his role on the AGB Board of Directors, and his time as interim president and CEO,” said Paul Brajcich, chair of the AGB Board of Directors. “Over the last year, Ross brought to this role a strong focus on building relationships across the higher education landscape, a commitment to nonpartisan principles of governance, unimpeachable integrity, and a vision for the future of AGB that builds on our recently launched strategic plan.”
“The opportunity to work alongside AGB’s board, staff, and membership to advance the principles of good governance at this moment is an honor,” said Mugler. “Strong governance is the foundation of a healthy higher education ecosystem. I’m looking forward to continuing our work to equip boards to lead strategically, protect institutional autonomy, and stay focused on mission because the success of our colleges and universities depends on it.”
In his interim role, Mugler has improved organizational efficiency and operational stewardship, elevated AGB’s national visibility and profile, advocated for nonpartisan good governance in the face of government overreach, and strengthened collaborative leadership and sector-wide relationships.
Mugler earned a bachelor’s of business administration and a master’s in public policy, both at Old Dominion University. He has committed to serving for at least three years. and will split his time between his home in Hampton, VA, and Washington, DC, allowing him to be a regular presence in the AGB offices when he’s not traveling on AGB business.
About AGB
At AGB we believe in the power of higher education to transform lives, strengthen inclusive democracy, and support a thriving society. We believe that strong higher education starts with great governing boards. AGB provides advocacy, leading practices, educational resources, expert support, and renowned programs that advance board excellence for 40,000 AGB members from more than 2,000 institutions and foundations. For more than 100 years, AGB has been the trusted authority for board members, chief executives, board professionals, and key administrators on higher education governance and leadership. Learn more at AGB.org.
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