Norm Rickeman: Politics in regent selection? U betcha.

Commentary

As a candidate for the Board of Regents at the University of Minnesota, I read with interest the Star Tribune's editorial about the selection process ("Limit politics in regent selection," Feb. 23).

The Regent Candidate Advisory Council was created for the purpose of broadening the candidate pool.

I am a perfect example of that, having no political connections at all and becoming one of the 12 finalists.

While the council casts a wide net and has done a good job in my opinion, it is also unwittingly part of the problem.

Its mere existence creates the illusion that the process is open and accessible to normal citizens like me who care about the U and have the interest and background to help.

In reality, the politicians are going to do what they always have done.

But the Legislature's duty is to fill the seats so that all Minnesotans are represented, not to pack it with political cronies and lobbyists. And legislators and regents need to be accountable.

I met with more than 30 legislators. Many had concerns about the U, the regents, etc., and stereotypes abounded. I wanted to say: "Hey, you're in charge. Do something about it."

But politicians tend to be attracted to the blame game, not accountability. I agree that the U is a treasured asset that belongs to all of Minnesota and that the regents need to reflect that.

What about representation for the vast majority of U alumni, friends and stakeholders who don't dabble in politics, lobbying or even agribusiness (as a Minnesota farm boy, I can have the audacity to say this).

The most telling statistic is this: The Advisory Council received a total of only 46 applications for four open slots. Think about all the talent we have in the state.

The current, political process inhibits and blocks this from happening.

Sour grapes from an unsuccessful candidate? Maybe, but tell me where I am wrong. Likelihood of being addressed? As I heard at the State Capitol so many times: "It is what it is."