Governor Palin Appoints Four to Board of Regents

January 24, 2007, Juneau, Alaska - Governor Palin today announced four appointments to the University of Alaska Board of Regents: Fuller Cowell II of Anchorage, Patricia Jacobson of Kodiak, Kirk Wickersham of Anchorage, and Tim Brady of Anchorage.
Fuller Cowell II
Fuller Cowell II is a retired businessman who spent much of his life in the press.  He is the founder of the Valdez Vanguard, former publisher of The Cordova Times, and most recently, the former publisher of the Anchorage Daily News.  He co-chaired the Providence Foundation Steering Committee and was a founding member of the Alaska Cancer Research and Education Center.  Cowell and his wife, Christmas, were co-chairs of the 1996 Anchorage United Way Campaign.  He received a Bachelor of Business Administration from National University in Sacramento, California.

"Fuller's vast knowledge and commitment to giving back to the University of Alaska makes him an obvious choice for this post," said Governor Palin.  "He will be an advocate of the University's academic quality and pledge to fiscal responsibility."

"I am honored to be chosen by Governor Palin to serve on the University of Alaska Board of Regents," said Cowell.  "The University is one of Alaska's most valuable assets.  I will do everything possible to enhance this fine institution for the benefit of all Alaskans."

Patricia Jacobson
Patricia Jacobson is a retired educator and former member of the Kodiak Borough School Board.  In addition to teaching for 26 years, Jacobson worked as a big game guide.  She has volunteered countless hours on numerous councils and boards.  Jacobson received a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education from the University of Alaska.

"Patricia has improved the lives of countless students in Kodiak and brings that dedication to furthering the growth of Alaska's students within the public university system," said Governor Palin.  "We will no doubt benefit from her insight and devotion."

"I am thrilled and honored to have been selected to serve on the Board of Regents," said Jacobson.  "The University system is a wonderful and critical element of the state.  I look forward to the challenges of guiding the University while exercising fiscal responsibility."

Kirk Wickersham
Kirk Wickersham is an attorney, real estate broker and entrepreneur.  He is the owner of the For Sale By Owner Assistance Program, a company that provides professional consulting to home sellers.  He holds degrees from the University of Alaska, University of Colorado, and Yale Law School.

"Kirk is a long-time public servant and a recognized leader in the private sector," said Governor Palin.  "He will bring a valuable prospective to the Board.  The positive impact he will have on our higher education system will be immeasurable."

"I am honored and humbled that Governor Palin has selected me to serve on the Board of Regents," said Wickersham.  "As an alumnus, it will be a privilege to serve the students, faculty and staff.  I am particularly interested in exploring the option of creating a law school within the University."

Tim Brady
Tim Brady has been reappointed to another term.  Brady is the President of Ken Brady Construction Company.  He served the remaining two years of an unexpired eight-year term left vacant when a previous regent resigned.  Brady holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Arizona State University's School of Engineering, Division of Construction.  He is involved with the Anchorage Downtown Rotary, Boy Scouts of America, American Red Cross, Better Business Bureau, and Associated General Contractors of Alaska.

"I am so grateful that Tim has agreed to continue his service on the Board," said Governor Palin.  "Tim is a man of intelligence and vision who will continue the University system's longstanding commitment to excellence."

"I am honored that Governor Palin has reappointed me to the Board of Regents," said Regent Brady.  "I look forward to meeting the challenges facing our University system and serving the needs of our students."

The University of Alaska Board of Regents is an 11-member board, appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Alaska Legislature.  Members serve an eight-year term, with the exception of the student regent who serves a two-year term.  The Board sets policy for the University of Alaska and appoints its president.