Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C,I-Ballston) participated in the Board of Regents interview process on February 5 and 12. The Board of Regents is comprised of 17 members who serve five-year terms: one from each of the state’s judicial districts and four members who serve at large. Members are unsalaried and responsible for overseeing all educational activities within the state, including SUNY and the New York State Education Department. Following the interviews, the Legislature will vote to appoint or reappoint four members whose terms are due to expire on April 1.

“As the Ranking Member of the Assembly Committee on Education, it is a privilege to sit in on the Board of Regents interviews to ensure the most qualified candidates are selected to oversee our state’s education programs. However, I strongly believe greater transparency is required,” said Walsh. “Unfortunately, my Assembly Minority colleagues and I were not informed about the first round of interviews until the night before, and again, I received resumes and the list of candidates and incumbents upon sitting down at this morning’s interviews. Choosing the members who will sit on the Board of Regents is such an important process and as such, legislators deserve the time to prepare questions and properly review the individuals on their merit. Our students and districts deserve better.”