Making Changes to Michigan University Boards Selection Process
Michigan Senate leadership has proposed a significant change in the way the governing boards of the state’s three largest universities are selected. The move comes in response to the ongoing troubles faced by the boards of Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, and Wayne State University.
Current Selection Process
Currently, members of the university boards are elected by voters from candidates nominated by both major parties at a convention. However, the Senate’s new measure suggests a different approach.
Proposed Changes
The Senate’s proposal advocates for the governor to appoint new board members as old terms expire, with the advice and consent of the Senate, similar to the process for other public universities in the state. This shift in the selection process aims to address the mounting criticisms faced by the university boards in recent years, including internal conflicts and mishandling of scandals.
Differing Visions
While there is broad support for changing the selection process, the exact method varies. The House’s earlier proposal, focusing solely on the big three university boards, failed to receive a simple majority. In contrast, the Senate’s plan includes a primary system for nominating the Attorney General and Secretary of State candidates, moving away from party convention delegates picking candidates.
Seeking Compromise
House Majority Floor Leader Bryan Posthumus views the Senate’s introduction of his plan as a positive step towards finding a compromise between the chambers. The goal is to establish a middle ground that moves away from direct elections while ensuring the voice of the people and the legislative body is represented in the selection process.
Future Steps
Changing the system for selecting university board members would require voters to approve a state constitutional amendment. Achieving this goal demands a supermajority in both legislative chambers, indicating a significant effort is needed to bring about these changes.
Stakeholder Perspectives
While some members support the proposed changes as a means to improve accountability and governance, others, like State Rep. Samantha Steckloff, emphasize the importance of maintaining direct input from voters to uphold the uniqueness and success of Michigan’s universities.
