Higher education is one of Minnesota’s greatest assets, but also provides one of our greatest challenges in preparing our state for the future. In an increasingly competitive global economy, we rely on our colleges and universities to prepare the workforce of tomorrow, conduct research that improves our quality of life, and to inspire vibrant arts, science, and humanities.

Every two years, the Minnesota Legislature elects members to the University of Minnesota Board of Regents, the U’s governing board, which provides counsel, oversight and vital decision-making for the University, including setting the annual budget and tuition. The Regent Candidate Advisory Council is charged by the Legislature to recruit and recommend candidates to serve on the Board of Regents. And that is a process we are undertaking again in the coming weeks.

There are five open seats in 2015, representing the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 6th and 7th Congressional Districts. The 3rd District seat is for a partial term to fill an unexpected vacancy created by the death of Regent David Larson earlier this year. Candidates must be a resident of the Congressional District for which they are applying.

The University of Minnesota is one of the largest, most robust public research universities in the world. Serving on the Board of Regents is an important way to have a meaningful impact on the future of our state. We hope you will take the time to learn more about the Board of Regents. The RCAC will consider all of those who apply and strive to recommend the best possible candidates for these critically important public service positions.

The deadline for application is Dec. 5. Application materials are available on the RCAC website (www.rcac.leg.mn/application) or by calling Sally Olson at 651-296-9002.

 

Ardell Brede, chairman, Regent Candidate Advisory Council

Rochester