Board of Trustees

The board of trustees (or board of regents, governing council) is the highest governing body of a university, responsible for fiduciary oversight, strategic planning, presidential selection and evaluation, and approval of major policies. Board members are typically appointed by government officials (public universities), elected by alumni (some private universities), or self-perpetuating (existing members select new ones). Board composition usually includes business leaders, alumni, public figures, and sometimes student or faculty representatives. The relationship between the board and university president/chancellor is critical — the board sets direction while the president manages operations.