Regents approve amendments to special committee on nominations process

The University of California Board of Regents approved amendments to the charter of the special committee on nominations that change membership rules and the process for candidates for board chair and vice chair to declare interest.

At a high level, the committee approved adding a former board chair who is currently serving in another board role to the special committee’s membership to capture institutional experience; it also bars individuals being considered for chair or vice chair from serving on the nominating committee. The new process requires the special committee chair to solicit regents’ interest in leadership positions and to receive confidential submissions of interest or nominations at least one week before the special committee’s annual meeting. The special committee must meet separately with each candidate before voting. If a regent goes through the nominations process and is not recommended by the special committee, that regent may declare candidacy for chair or vice chair directly to the special committee chair. The special committee chair must notify all board members at least three days before the board meeting, and candidates will have the option to address the board prior to a full-board vote.

Why it matters: The amendments formalize steps for leadership nominations and add a mechanism for transparency and candidate engagement before the board vote.

Discussion and vote: Tricia (staff) provided a high-level overview of the changes. The committee chair said the amendments followed “considerable time and thoughtful discussion and careful consideration.” The item passed without recorded opposition.

Ending: The charter amendments were approved and will be implemented under the Governance Committee’s procedures.