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 board meetings, I've at times been frustrated with the U's inability to provide me with a big report before it's presented at the monthly Board of Regents meeting.

I tend to ask for advance copies so that I can better understand the morning's presentation. With the basic details already in my head, I can grasp more of the discussion, develop context, think more critically and be more accurate in my reporting. A rush job serves no one well.

Sorry, we don't have it yet. It's not finished.

So at the most recent board meeting, my ears perked up when regent John Frobenius said the following after U officials presented the long-awaited Operational Excellence report -- t

he one that's supposed to help make the U a more efficient and effective institution

So I guess I wasn't the only one with concerns -- at least that day.

I asked U spokesman Chuck Tombarge for a comment. He sent this statement:

I also spoke with board Chairman Richard Beeson. He acknowledged the situation, but said it generally hasn't been a problem.

Regents, he said, rarely vote on something the same day they get information. This past board meeting was an exception because of the legislative deadline for the report.

That said, when it comes to getting regents more lead time on the reports, he said: "We're working on it."

Education News

On Campus Blog

Alex Friedrich

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In my coverage of University of Minnesota board meetings, I’ve at times been frustrated with the U’s inability to provide me with a big report before it’s presented at the monthly Board of Regents meeting. I tend to ask for advance copies so that I can better understand the morning’s presentation. With the basic details 

In my coverage of University of Minnesota board meetings, I’ve at times been frustrated with the U’s inability to provide me with a big report before it’s presented at the monthly Board of Regents meeting. I tend to ask for advance copies so that I can better understand the morning’s presentation. With the basic details Read more →


A U of M regent’s reaction to a last-minute report

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