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New Voices Needed for Colorado’s Future University
Boulder, Colorado, USASaturday, March 7, 2026
The fate of CU hinges on who sits on its governing board.
When seasoned leaders step aside, they signal a shift from personal power to the institution’s long‑term health.
- Experience matters – but without fresh perspectives, a university can become rigid and slow to adapt.
- Global lessons – UN‑era institutions that failed to nurture new leaders lost public trust and struggled with change.
- Mentorship wins – veteran administrators who guide newcomers build resilience and innovation.
Pressing Questions the Board Must Address
| Issue | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Rising tuition costs | Keeps access and affordability at the forefront. |
| AI breakthroughs | Shapes research, curriculum, and competitiveness. |
| Academic freedom & inclusion | Maintains the university’s democratic ethos. |
| Job market demands | Aligns education with evolving skill sets. |
These challenges demand leaders who:
- Feel the pulse of students, faculty, and society.
- Understand rapid tech evolution while staying grounded in campus realities.
- Accept responsibility for CU’s long‑term future.
The Selection Process Shapes Culture
Choosing regents is more than a roster; it crafts the university’s leadership culture.
A healthy institution needs:
- Competitive ideas and open debate.
- A pipeline of capable leaders ready for tomorrow’s problems.
Renewal doesn’t erase history; it protects and strengthens what works best.
In short, CU must hand over the reins now—ensuring forward momentum while staying true to its mission of economic mobility, scientific innovation, and democratic dialogue.
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