For media inquiries and photo requests, please contact:
Seven new commissioners were recently appointed to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE), a federal interstate compact of 16 Western state and territorial members that work collaboratively to expand educational access and excellence for all citizens of the West.
Appointed to four-year terms by the governors of each of their states and territories, commissioners serve on a 48-member commission that provides strategic direction for WICHE and oversees its robust and diverse portfolio of higher education programs, research, and policy work.
These are WICHE’s seven new commission appointees:
• John Arnold (Arizona), executive director, Arizona Board of Regents
• Jim Chavez (Colorado), executive director, Latin American Educational Foundation
• Frankie Eliptico (CNMI), interim president, Northern Marianas College
• Dave Lent (Idaho), senator, Idaho State Legislature
• F. Ann Millner (Utah), senator, Utah State Legislature
• Angie Paccione (Colorado), executive director, Colorado Department of Higher Education
• Thom Reilly (Nevada), chief executive officer, Nevada System of Higher Education
“All seven of these individuals bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to our board that will be valuable as we build upon and advance the many ways in which WICHE serves students in the region,” said Demaree Michelau, WICHE president. “I look forward to working closely with each of them to promote successful student outcomes, vibrant economies, and strong leadership throughout the West.”
About WICHE: Established by Congress in 1953, WICHE is one of four U.S. higher education regional compacts. WICHE’s programs and efforts help students pursue higher education affordably and conveniently, accelerate regionwide sharing of ideas and resources, provide expert research and policy guidance, and help higher education stakeholders thrive amidst rapid change. WICHE is funded by its members—who reap strong returns on investment from WICHE programs—and by grantmakers and others who share our desire to overcome the education and workforce challenges of tomorrow. Learn more at wiche.testing.brossgroup.com.