CHAPEL HILL — UNC President Margaret Spellings on Friday said the Board of Governors could benefit from state legislation that would cut eight members from the 32-member body.
The university’s General Administration and board have so far remained officially neutral toward House Bill 39, which the Senate may soon pass.
“The General Assembly’s proposal to reduce the size of the Board of Governors fits with a natural pattern of modern and effective governance and greater operational efficiency,” Spellings said.
Other issues are more important than the number of members on UNC’s board, she said.
Board members should be selected based on vision and expertise, since “that will help strengthen public education for the citizens of of North Carolina.”
“We have the opportunity to find the right balance in governance and accountability — system-level governance should remain focused on broad goals and accountability measures. As we rise to meet the challenges of a growing state and a more complex economy, getting that balance right is more important than ever.
“Our mission is to create greater opportunity for North Carolina students and families, and we appreciate the legislature’s careful attention to the university’s role in our state.”