As a Freshman at the University of New Mexico, I wouldn’t have been able to explain who the regents are. After making a presentation this past week to Emerging Lobo Leaders, an engaging and diverse group of talented young students, I found that many students are as unaware of who the Regents are as I once was.
The Board of Regents at the University of New Mexico are assembled of seven members appointed by the Governor of New Mexico. The Board has the power to govern the University, including the fiduciary responsibility for the assets and programs of the University, the establishment of goals and policies to guide the University, and the oversight of the functioning of the University (regents.unm.edu). The Board vests the responsibly of operation and management in the President of the University, Dr. Robert G. Frank.
So, why is this important? Because the Regents have been entrusted by the New Mexico Constitution to guide the state’s flagship institution, we address issues that affect the entire campus community. An example may provide further clarification. In September, the Regents approved a resolution for $35M worth of bonds to renovate Johnson Center. This renovation is much needed and affects all parties on campus, including administration, faculty, staff and students. In this scenario, the board’s approval is the first step in a succession of approvals that are required for a new and improved Johnson Gym.
Another important issue often addressed by the Regents are tuition and fees. I encourage you all to check your email for Provost Abdallah’s Wednesday Communiqué dated Oct. 21. For two years in a row, the University has seen decreasing enrollment partly due to an improved local economy. For every 1 percent decrease in enrollment, the University’s budget is short $3M in tuition revenues. The Regents work closely with administration toward solutions that promote student success while minimizing detrimental effects that budget shortages can have on the academic mission of our University. These dilemmas are challenging and require a great deal of deliberation and discussion.
As Student Regent, it is my job to consider the interests of students while also remaining forward thinking, considering how the University will serve the educational needs of the state of New Mexico in five, ten, or fifteen years. I understand the academic journey of obtaining a college degree at the University of New Mexico. As the first in my family to graduate from college, I was dependent on the lottery scholarship just like many of you reading today. I am a product of the system which supports so many of us. It is my responsibility along with the rest of the Board to ensure that this system is successful for you and the generations to come.
In my brief experience as Student Regent I have found one aspect to be particularly rewarding; never are you the smartest individual in the room. Everyone on campus knows something that would allow me to better serve our University. I am extremely fortunate to work closely with GPSA President Texanna Martin and ASUNM President Jenna Hagengruber whose dedication to this University is admirable. They both enlighten me with new information everyday as we all look to support the students who we call classmates. Everyone reading this editorial has a stake in this University and its continued success. When I am not at work or in class, I am in my office in the SUB Atrium. As members of the UNM community, you all have a voice worth hearing. I look forward to learning something new from all of you.
Ryan Berryman is the student regent on the UNM Board of Regents. He can be reached at stregent@unm.edu or on Twitter @StudentRegent.
