The UH System Board of Regents elected three officers for the 2009-2010 term earlier this month.
Welcome Wilson Sr., a commercial developer whose business and political connections have earned him high marks, will serve his third term as chairman. The board voted to suspend the bylaw that no chairman can serve more than two consecutive terms.
Regent Secretary Jim Wise will serve as vice chairman, and attorney Nelda Blair, UH Law Center alumna, as secretary.
Gov. Rick Perry appointed each member to serve a six-year term on the board, which is comprised of 10 members, one of whom is an annual non-voting student representative.
Regents said they bring with them a commitment to increase educational opportunities for underserved populations and a desire to grow the international reputation of UH.
‘The UH System as a whole is most strengthened by its diversity. Diversity in the degree offerings (and) diversity in the faculty and students,’ Blair said.
Chairman Wilson listed some of the UH System’s accomplishments during his time as a regent, including the school’s world-class faculty and community contributions. Wilson labeled Renu Khator, as one of the ‘nation’s premier university presidents.’
Vice Chairman Wise echoed these same sentiments.
‘I continue to believe the most important vote I have rendered as a regent was in favor of hiring Dr. Khator,’ Wise said. ‘Success is about the right people in the right slots, and we have achieved that, together.’
Wilson said among the most pressing goals of the UH System is doubling research expenditures and attaining flagship status. He also said he was the typical (student) profile that Hugh Roy Cullen had in mind when the Cullen family funded the University.
‘I will forever be grateful for that opportunity, and out of gratefulness, I try to give back all I can,’ he said.
