The Board of Regents this week approved the creation of a search committee to spearhead the selection of a new commissioner of higher education. The Board of Regents this week approved the creation of a search committee to spearhead the selection of a new commissioner of higher education to replace Sally Clausen, who announced her resignation June 8 on the heels of a political flap resulting from her admission that she availed herself of the controversial retire-rehire program meant to retain veteran teachers - a move she initially kept from the 16-member board.
While the eight-member search committee represents all regions of the state, no one from Lafayette is on the panel. Board Chairman Artis Terrell says he expects to have a new commissioner identified within six months following a national search. In the meantime, the board will tap an as-yet unnamed interim commissioner, who should be on the job within a month.