The Auburn University Board of Trustees will soon have a vacant seat, which Governor Bob Riley is actively encouraging individuals meeting the requirements to apply for.
The open position is for the trustee representing District 6, which includes Bibb, Chilton, Greene, Hale, Perry, Shelby, Sumter and Tuscaloosa Counties. Applicants hoping to apply must currently be a resident of one of those counties and less than 70 years of age when appointed to the Auburn Board. The District 6 position was occupied by Paul Spina of Pelham, a trustee since 1995.
In a letter addressed to members of the Auburn family, Riley said trustee candidates should be "leaders who are forward-looking, service-oriented and dedicated to furthering Auburn's instruction, research and extension missions."
"As I student I think we really want to see a trustee that is open to meeting students and keeping them at the top priority of the University," Jacob Watkins, SGA President said. "The Board has always had a tradition of great relationships with students, I would like to see someone that will continue this tradition, but at the same time, I think it is important for a trustee to be open to growth and expansion as Auburn is continuing to grow exponentially. "
A committee comprised of Riley or his representative, two members of the Auburn Alumni Association's Board of Directors and two current Auburn trustees will review applications and interview candidates beginning August 18. The committee's nominee will then require confirmation by the Alabama Senate.
With the recent death of board member John C.H. "Jack" Miller Jr., an Auburn University trustee since 2000, there is now a chance that two seats will be opened up.
"It will ultimately be up to the governor whether or not they open up this slot to the current process," Deedie Dowdle, executive director for the Office of Communications and Marketing, said.
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