Regents

Definition

The governing board of a university system, typically political appointees who make major decisions about institutions they often don't understand. They're to universities what corporate boards are to companies, except with more politicians and fewer people who've actually worked in education.

Example Usage

The Board of Regents voted to freeze tuition for political reasons, leaving the university to somehow cut $50 million from the budget.

Origin

From Latin 'regere' meaning to rule, adopted from British university governance models

Fun Fact

Regent positions are often patronage appointments, leading to boards filled with wealthy donors and political allies rather than education experts

Source: Higher education governance terminology

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