Richard McIlwaine (educator)

Richard McIlwaine was an American educator and Presbyterian minister who served as the fourth president of Hampden-Sydney College, a liberal arts college for men located in Hampden Sydney, Virginia, from 1883 to 1904.

Born in Petersburg, Virginia, McIlwaine was educated at Hampden-Sydney College and Union Theological Seminary in Virginia. Prior to his presidency, he served as a pastor in several Presbyterian churches in Virginia and North Carolina.

During his tenure at Hampden-Sydney, McIlwaine focused on strengthening the college's academic reputation and financial stability. He oversaw improvements to the curriculum, faculty recruitment, and fundraising efforts. He also presided over the construction of several new buildings on campus, including a new library and science hall. McIlwaine was known for his strong leadership and commitment to the college's mission of providing a classical education within a Christian context.

After retiring from the presidency of Hampden-Sydney in 1904, McIlwaine remained active in the Presbyterian Church and continued to contribute to the educational community. He authored several books and articles on religious and educational topics.