Senate Leader Announces Appointments to the University of Missouri System Review Commission

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Senate Leader Announces Appointments to the University of Missouri System Review Commission

JEFFERSON CITY— Senate Leader Ron Richard, R-Joplin, announced today four appointments to the University of Missouri System Review Commission. Members of the commission will be responsible for reviewing the UM System’s rules, regulations, administrative structure, campus structure, auxiliary enterprise structure, degree programs, research activities, and diversity programs. Sen. Richard said the review will hopefully lead to recommendations or changes needed within the System.

“We conducted an exhaustive search to make sure we appointed some outstanding Missourians from all areas of the state with different backgrounds,” said Richard. “Last year we witnessed a lack of leadership at the UM System’s highest level. The Legislature saw the need for objective oversight. This commission will help gain back trust and respect from people across the state.”

The commission is a result of Senate Concurrent Resolution 66 sponsored by Appropriations Chairman, Sen. Kurt Schaefer, R-Columbia. Sen. Schaefer said without some kind oversight, the future of the UM System was unclear.

“The rules have gotten so out of balance. Many poor decisions were made,” said Schaefer. “The commission will serve as an outside voice and give some much needed feedback on how to ensure the long-term survival and growth of the institution.”

The commission will consist of four members appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Richard, and four members appointed by the Speaker of the House, Todd Richardson, R-Poplar Bluff.

Senate Leader Richard’s appointments include:

  • Neal Bredehoeft, B.S., Animal/Livestock Husbandry and Production, University of Missouri-Columbia College of Agriculture, Bredehoeft Farms, Inc.
  • Renee Hulshof, B.J., University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism, Co-host of KFRU’s “The Morning Meeting”
  • Dave Spence, Home Economics, University of Missouri-Columbia, Legacy Pharmaceutical Packaging
  • Michael Williams, J.D., University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law, Partner at Williams, Dirks, Dameron LLC

Sen. Richard said his appointees each possess strong experience and expertise in governance, management, and understanding of school leadership and instruction. Each also understand the important role the University of Missouri System plays across the Show-Me State.

Once the review of the UM System is complete, the commission will also prepare a report for the General Assembly, due by Dec. 31, 2016, with recommended changes.

Lauren Hieger, Senate Majority Caucus Communications Director
(573) 751-7266 – lauren.hieger@senate.mo.gov