UH System seeks applicants for 2019-2020 student regent position
As the fall 2018 semester comes to a close, the Student Government Association (SGA) is seeking applicants for the 2019-2020 UH Student Regent, a position appointed by the governor who will serve as the student regent for the University of Houston System for one-term expiring on May 31, 2020. Students interested in applying must have applications submitted to the UHCL SGA by Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, for full consideration.
Daniel M. Maxwell, interim vice president of student affairs, said there are several characteristics that help identify a successful candidate for those who may be thinking about applying. Maxwell said interviewing, execution, student involvement and off the record issues portray the characteristics needed to become a successful student regent.
Maxwell said applying for the Student Regent position is much like preparing for a job interview, and those applying should have a firm idea of the role they are preparing to take on.
A portion of the roles of the Board of Regents includes: enhancing the public image of each institution, interpreting the community to the campus and preserving institutional independence.
“Somebody who can articulate their message and come into the interview confident about this opportunity; stands the same chance as anybody from UH, UHV or UH-Downtown,” Maxwell said.
Along with understanding the role of regent, Maxwell said applicants need to know that proposed actions might not be visible until after their term is completed. Unlike a student government role where progress can be seen within that semester; the regent will assist the board of trustees with actions that could impact future terms.
Not only will the student regent meet with fellow board members, but individuals will also be invited to attend events for the UH System, and possibly government events, representing the student body.
“You`ll always be introduced as a regent,” Maxwell said. “Once a regent, always a regent.”
Maxwell also pointed out that communication plays a key part, and knowing how to connect across the four UH campuses will be a vital asset when interacting with student peers. Having an organized agenda to meet with student government presidents at monthly campus visits could benefit issues in question.
“I`ve seen the voice of the student at the table with regents is valued,” Maxwell said. “You will see other regents ask the student (regent`s) perspective, it’s an amazing experience for the student who is finally accepted.”
The application process requires a brief essay portion with a limited response of not more than 250 words. Student applicaticants will be able to identify the issues they wish to be addressed as a Board member along with campus involved activities, such as clubs, that would benefit them as a candidate. A student regent has the same capability and duties as the members of the Board of Regents with a few exceptions. Priorities focused on by the Board of Regents include academic excellence, community relevance and leadership.
Izuh Ikpeama, president of UHCL`s SGA, suggested that student applications should just be themselves.
“They should just be their best, most authentic self,” Ikpeama said. “I`ve been able to meet with the past two student regents, and they have both echoed the notion that it is a great and unique opportunity for any student.”
Current UH Student Regent, Andrew Teoh, reflected on his time as student regent and encourages other students to apply.
“It’s an honor to serve as the Student Regent for the UH System,” Teoh said. “I’ve been able to meet some incredible students, faculty, staff, and alumni and have played a role in shaping UHS for years to come. Everyone brings a different and valuable perspective to the table. I encourage every interested student to apply for this life-changing opportunity.”
