When the Board of Regents elects its chairman and vice chairman Thursday at its monthly meeting, the public will see only the vote, unaware of the process behind the formality.

The election, held every two years, was delayed while the board awaited Gov. James Thompson’s appointments for three expired terms. Board Chairman Carol Burns and Vice Chairman D. Brewster Parker were reappointed to the board in October, but neither would confirm nor deny whether they are seeking re-election to their current posts.

The Regents govern NIU, Illinois State University in Normal and Sangamon State University in Springfield.

Both current and former board members disagree on the level of politicking carried on in search of a position. Former Regent Harry Wellbank, a 15-year BOR member, said he was unaware of any maneuvering. Regent Milton McClure said there is “no active campaigning.”

However, NIU Student Regent Bob Tisch said “it (campaigning) goes on,” and Parker recalled “calling around to other board members asking for support,” but offering “no campaign promises” before being elected vice chairman.

Whether aggressively sought or not, the two positions have their advantages and duties. The position of vice chairman is seen as a “training ground” for the chairmanship, Burns said. But Dave Murray, board chairman from 1978 through 1985, said the succession is not automatic.

Burns said the current chairman is likely to be re-elected if the person is interested and has performed well. If the chairman is not interested in reelection, “then the vice chairman would naturally be considered.”

Neither position carries a pay increase, but both require more time—a committment prohibitive for some members, Burns said. McClure said both posts convey “a certain degree of stature or respect.”

Murray said tolerance of others’ opinions, rapport with the Regency presidents and board chancellor and the ability to efficiently oversee meetings are musts for an effective chairman.

Burns said board members serve the public’s higher education concerns, but holding an executive position can boost a member’s contributions. She added each candidate has a goal when seeking a position, as she did before her election.

“Aside from providing leadership and a perspective from the business sector (Burns is with Caterpillar in Peoria), my goal was to move the Regency system into public acknowledgement that we are the second biggest system in Illinois,” Burns said. “That objective has been accomplished.”