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For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Joe Brenckle
[email protected]
Washington, DC (June 30, 2026)—Virginia’s recent efforts to strengthen higher education governance will take center stage at a national forum hosted by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) on July 13, 2026 at the National Press Club.
The invitation-only event, Mission Before Politics: Governing in a Time of Disruption, will bring together higher education leaders, policymakers, and governing board members from across the country to examine how governing boards must remain focused on institutional mission while navigating increasing political and public pressures.
Virginia leaders will play a prominent role in the national conversation, joining Geoff Landward, commissioner of higher education for the Utah System of Higher Education, whose state has also been at the forefront of efforts to strengthen board governance and trustee preparedness.
Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth Candi Mundon King will discuss the Commonwealth’s efforts to strengthen higher education governance and restore confidence in board effectiveness. Major General (Ret.) Cedric T. Wins, former superintendent of Virginia Military Institute, will share firsthand perspectives on the impact governance challenges can have on institutional leadership, mission fulfillment, and public trust. Senator Tim Kaine has been invited to discuss governance reforms advanced during his administration as governor of Virginia and the lessons they offer today.
Landward will share findings from Utah that reveal a concerning lack of understanding among some trustees regarding their fiduciary responsibilities and discuss the governance challenges that prompted the state to strengthen trustee accountability.
“Virginia has been at the center of important conversations about higher education governance, but it is not alone in facing these challenges,” said Ross Mugler, president and CEO of AGB. “By bringing together leaders from Virginia and Utah, this conversation will highlight practical lessons for governing boards nationwide as they work to uphold their fiduciary responsibilities, support institutional leadership, and ensure colleges and universities remain focused on their missions.”
Moderated by Doug Lederman, former editor and co-founder of Inside Higher Ed, the event will explore the principles of effective board governance, institutional independence, and fiduciary leadership through conversations with national experts in higher education, law, and public policy.
To request an invitation to the event, please contact [email protected].
About AGB
The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) is the premier organization representing higher education governing boards, presidents, board professionals, and institutionally related foundations. AGB advances the practice of effective governance to strengthen higher education and ensure colleges and universities fulfill their missions in service to students and society.
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