Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Higher Education Governance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senate panel advances Steven Paul Neville to Western New Mexico University Board of Regents amid calls to investigate campus issues
Summary
A Senate subcommittee voted to advance Steven Paul Neville for appointment to the Western New Mexico University Board of Regents; senators and supporters said Neville's leadership and education experience will be needed to address recent governance and financial concerns at WNMU.
A Senate Rules subcommittee voted to send Steven Paul Neville to the full Senate for confirmation as a regent for Western New Mexico University after proponents described his long record of public service and ties to higher education.
Senator Lanier introduced Neville and recounted Neville's local and statewide record, including service as a state senator, county commissioner and roles in higher-education advocacy. Neville told the committee he has a background in agriculture and higher-education involvement, including past work at New Mexico State University and relationships with San Juan College. Supporters from San Juan College, including President Tony Pendergrass, and local lobbyist Scott Scanlon testified in favor of Neville, saying his leadership would help stabilize Western.
Committee members asked Neville how he would address problems at Western New Mexico University. Neville said his immediate priorities would include reviewing findings from the state attorney general and auditor, meeting with other incoming regents, ensuring there is an acting president and launching a national search for a permanent president. He also said he would consider a forensic audit if warranted and that he intended to meet quickly with faculty and administrators to understand campus issues. Committee members asked specific questions about an earlier contract involving a former university president; participants discussed a previously reported $200,000-a-year, five-year teaching contract tied to the former president as an example of issues requiring review.
Senator Stefanik moved the appointment forward; the subcommittee recorded six votes in favor and no opposition. The nomination will go to the full Senate for confirmation.
