Board of Regents officially welcomes four newest members

Paul Wedlake, University of Colorado

From left, Regent Ken Montera, Regent Wanda L. James, Gov. Jared Polis, Regent Frank McNulty, Regent Mark VanDriel and Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Brian D. Boatright.

Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Brian Boatright last week swore in four members of the University of Colorado Board of Regents who were elected in November.

Four is an unusual number to join the nine-member board. Typically, the most seats that will turn over in any election cycle is three. In the most recent cycle, however, board Vice Chair Ken Montera had to run for the 5th Congressional District seat Gov. Jared Polis appointed him to in late 2021, after Regent Chance Hill resigned to move out of state.

Paul Wedlake, University of Colorado

Montera is sworn in by Boatright.

Polis attended the Jan. 5 ceremony, held at CU Denver’s Student Commons Building.

Paul Wedlake, University of Colorado

James, with husband Scott Durrah, is sworn in by Boatright.

Montera, R-Colorado Springs, was joined by three new board members: District 1’s Wanda James, D-Denver; District 4’s Frank McNulty, R-Highlands Ranch; and Mark VanDriel, R-Greeley, from the newly created District 8.

Paul Wedlake, University of Colorado

McNulty, with wife Shannon McNulty and their children, is sworn in by Boatright.

Board Chair Lesley Smith urged the new regents to continually ask themselves “what’s best for the university” as they carry out their duties.

Paul Wedlake, University of Colorado

VanDriel, with wife Erika VanDriel and children, is sworn in by Boatright.

Regents are elected to six-year terms, which are staggered. Eight of the nine seats are assigned to Colorado’s congressional districts; the final at-large seat is elected by voters statewide.

Paul Wedlake, University of Colorado

CU President Todd Saliman welcomes the newest members of the Board of Regents.

The new board convenes for the first time at its winter retreat, today and Friday in Colorado Springs.