UM Board of Curators announces search committee for general counsel position

COLUMBIA, Mo. — The University of Missouri Board of Curators announced today that they have started the search for a new general counsel to replace Steve Owens, who announced his intent to step down earlier this month. Board Chair Darryl Chatman appointed a search committee and has asked Curator Robin Wenneker to lead the committee.

The general counsel reports directly to the Board of Curators and is charged with providing legal advice and service to the board and the university.

“This a critical position for the university and one that requires an extensive, thorough search,” Chatman said. “I’m pleased that Curator Wenneker has agreed to chair the search committee, and I look forward to a successful conclusion of this process. We are looking for someone who can build on the success of Steve Owens and his leadership.”

The individual chosen for the position is expected to demonstrate proven legal experience along with a deep knowledge of legal issues related to the evolving higher education landscape.

“We’re excited as the board launches this national search,” said Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri. “I will look forward to working with the next general counsel as we continue our work serving Missouri.”

The search committee, chaired by Wenneker, includes Chatman and Curators Todd Graves and Jeff Layman. The committee will be assisted by Martin Baker, managing partner of Buffkin/Baker Executive Search firm. The search firm has assisted the UM System on several executive searches over the past several years including MU vice chancellors at the University of Missouri-Columbia, and deans at the Missouri University of Science and Technology and the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

“Our goal is to select a person who will continue to strengthen the University of Missouri during a time of positive momentum for the university system,” Wenneker said. “We’re fortunate to have a strong and talented legal team already serving the university. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Buffkin/Baker Executive Search firm as we work diligently to find the best individual for this important position.”

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