Schools

Governor Quinn Makes Two Appointments to University of Illinois Board of Trustees


CHICAGO–(ENEWSPF)–August 26, 2009. Governor Pat Quinn appointed two new trustees to the University of Illinois Board of Trustees. Governor Quinn named Christopher G. Kennedy, president of Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. and Lawrence Oliver II, chief counsel in charge of internal investigations for Chicago-based Boeing Co. to the board of trustees.

“With the appointment of these two strong and accomplished public servants, the rebuilding of the University of Illinois Board of Trustees begins,” said Governor Quinn. “Each will work tirelessly to restore the university’s integrity and reputation for being one of the world’s foremost institutions of higher learning.”

Recently, the University of Illinois Board of Trustees came under fire after it was revealed that a special “clout list”, with hundreds of applicants, had existed for years and that many on that list were granted favorable treatment and admission to the university. Governor Quinn issued an Executive Order forming the independent Admissions Review Commission, headed by former federal judge Abner Mikva, which investigated the “clout list” claims and ultimately recommended all nine appointed board trustees voluntarily resign.

Kennedy replaces Niranjan Shah, former chairman of the board who recently resigned, and Oliver replaces trustee Lawrence Eppley, who also resigned. (Kennedy background, Oliver background).

In making today’s appointments, Governor Quinn said he intends to name five more trustees to the university board.

“We are off to a great start with Chris Kennedy and Lawrence Oliver,” said Governor Quinn. “Within a few days, I intend to name the very best people to the board. Their mission will be to help this great university move forward again.”

The University of Illinois Board of Trustees consists of thirteen members, including the Governor. Nine are appointed by the Governor for terms of six years, and three student trustees (one from each campus) are elected by referenda on their campuses for one-year terms. One of these student trustees is designated by the Governor to have an official vote. The next trustee meeting is scheduled for September 10 in Urbana.

 

Source: illinois.gov


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