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Home University of Memphis Media Room News Releases Governing Board for UofM

Gov. Haslam Announces Governing Board for University of Memphis

October 12, 2016 - Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam today announced the eight appointees to the newly created University of Memphis governing board, giving the University increased autonomy to support student success as the state continues its Drive to 55 initiative.

"This is a landmark day for the University of Memphis, our city and West Tennessee," said UofM President M. David Rudd. "The appointment of our new Board of Trustees and related change in our governance structure will better position the UofM to grow and compete at the national level, with an unparalleled commitment to innovation, efficiency and effectiveness. I would like to thank our new Trustees for their willingness to serve our University and broader Memphis community. We aspire to join the top tier of research universities nationally and look forward to working with this very talented group to realize that goal.

"We are grateful for Governor Haslam's vision for the future of higher education in Tennessee and the support of our state legislators. Without their commitment to excellence in higher education, this remarkable opportunity would not be possible."

The University of Memphis Board of Trustees is one of six to be appointed by Gov. Haslam, a result of his FOCUS Act passed by the General Assembly earlier this year.

The appointees to the UofM Board of Trustees are:

  • Douglas Edwards, senior advisor at BBH Capital Partners and former CEO of Morgan Keegan & Company, Inc.
  • Marvin Ellison, CEO and board chairman of JCPenney Company, Inc.
  • Alan Graf, executive vice president and chief financial officer for FedEx Corp.
  • Cato Johnson, senior vice president of public policy and regulatory affairs for Methodist Healthcare
  • Brad Martin, former interim president of the University of Memphis and retired chairman and CEO of Saks, Inc.
  • David North, president and CEO for Sedgwick Claims Management Services
  • Carol Roberts, senior vice president and chief financial officer for International Paper Co.
  • Susan Springfield, executive vice president and chief credit officer for First Horizon National Corporation

Subject to confirmation by the General Assembly, the Board of Trustees appointments are effective Jan. 16, 2017. If confirmed, Board members will undergo orientation and professional development coordinated by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. The University of Memphis Board of Trustees will assume responsibility upon the first called meeting by Gov. Haslam.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Contact: Gabrielle Maxey
901.678.2135
gmaxey@memphis.edu