“It is increasingly evident that there is great interest from UA community and public at large to express their thoughts, concerns or to advocate for the many areas of our university. This change in process will give ample opportunity for all to be heard.” �
–Chair Jo Heckman

In response to requests from community members, governance groups and business leaders, the Board of Regents has changed the way it will hear from the public. Beginning in September 2016, the board will host a two-hour audio public testimony session the week prior to full board meetings. They will no longer be hearing public testimony during their regular meetings.

The chair will moderate the session in the same way as was done for face-to-face testimony, while a facilitated audio line will allow residents anywhere in the state to testify telephonically.

This change is important for extending stakeholders’ opportunity for input and for time with the board. The evening hours will allow university and community members who cannot take time off work an opportunity to testify.

Another change to public input this year is the addition of evening forums with the board. The first night of each full board meeting will include a public forum at the board meeting location from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. during which local community members can share their views and opinions with the board.

The forums are intended to be a casual gathering of those interested in meeting with the board. A microphone will circulate the crowd providing an opportunity for individuals to share their issue or perspective. �

The Board of Regents has four standing committees and one ad hoc committee – audit, academic and student affairs, planning and development, facilities/land management and Title IX. Under the new configuration, committee meetings will be held at the end of the same week as public testimony, ensuring that members of the public can comment on actions under consideration by committees and the board.

The Board of Regents believe that separating public testimony and committee meetings from the full board meetings will free up time to hold informed, in-depth discussions about the many important matters and challenges facing the university.

Agendas are available at: http://www.alaska.edu/bor/agendas/
Click HERE for PDF with public testimony schedule and information.

Testifying to the Board of Regents

Comments are limited to two minutes per individual or as determined by the chair. Testimony will be taken in the order that people call in as time allows.

Written testimony is accepted at any time and is shared with the board and the president. Please submit to: ua-bor@alaska.edu.

Tips for Testifying
Address the chair and members. Introduce yourself and/or group you are representing: �� �
��� �
��� “Mr./Madam Chair and members of the Board of Regents, my name is
�� (your name), calling from (city)” and then begin your testimony.

• Know what you want to say, please be concise and specific.
• Summarize the main points of your comments.
• Offer a solution and be constructive.
• Have someone review your text or listen to your presentation.
• Practice and time yourself (2 minutes).

This is your opportunity to provide input and the Regents want to hear from you. We encourage you to email the board at ua-bor@alaska.edu.

Thank you for making UA a great university!

For more information visit www.alaska.edu/bor/public-testimony/