William C. Dudley

William C. Dudley (born in Charlottesville, Virginia) is an American academic administrator and philosopher, who currently serves as President of Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, California. He was previously the 27th president of Washington and Lee University (from January 2017 to July 2026). Prior to his presidency at Washington and Lee, he served as provost and professor of philosophy at Williams College.

Early life and education A Virginia native, Dudley was born in Charlottesville and raised in Arlington. He attended Williams College, where he graduated magna cum laude in 1989 with a double major in mathematics and philosophy. During his undergraduate years, he served as captain of the water polo team and was a member of the swim team. Upon graduation, he received a Herchel Smith Fellowship to study philosophy at the University of Cambridge from 1989 to 1990.

After his studies at Cambridge, Dudley worked for AES Corporation from 1990 to 1992.

From 2010 to 2011, Dudley served as the Gaudino Scholar at Williams, a presidential appointment designed to encourage curricular innovation and experiential learning. During his tenure as Gaudino Scholar, he initiated several programs including the Gaudino Lunch series, which facilitated conversations among students, faculty, and staff; supported neighborhood proposals to strengthen student-faculty interaction; and provided opportunities for independent Winter Study projects.

Claremont McKenna College On December 4th, 2025, Dudley was announced as the incoming President at Claremont McKenna College . Dudley starts at Claremont McKenna in July 2026. He is succeeding Hiram Chodosh.

Scholarship Dudley's academic research focuses on 19th century German philosophy. He is the author of two books: "Understanding German Idealism" (2007) and "Hegel, Nietzsche and Philosophy: Thinking Freedom" (2002).

Selected publications

Personal life Dudley is married to Dr. Carola Tanna.