Former UA student official chosen for regent

Gov. Jane Hull's office confirmed Monday that Christine Thompson, former Arizona Students Association director and current University of Arizona law student, has been chosen as the university's newest student regent.

"I would like to ensure that students have a voice at the Board of Regents," said Thompson, a first-year law student. "I want to make sure students have access to a quality education that is as free as possible."

Thompson, who worked with the Board of Regents during her term as ASA director, said she will focus on retention rates, quality of education and university expenses during her term.

"I'm very happy the governor saw fit to choose me," she said.

Northern Arizona University student Jennifer Reichelt held the position this year, and will leave her post in June. The position rotates annually between the three state schools.

Thompson was selected as a finalist earlier this month, along with Marco Lopez, former Arizona International Students Association president, and ASUA's Administrative Vice President Ryan Rosensteel.

The three finalists met with Hull, and were interviewed by two of the governor's top officials. The candidates were asked about their goals as student regent, along with their communication and time management skills.

Ann Lynch, Hull's special assistant, said she and the other official gave Hull their impressions of the candidates before the governor made her choice.

"It was an extremely difficult decision," Lynch said. "Ultimately, I think it was the breadth and depth of Christine's experience with educational issues...which allowed her to be selected."

Regents President Judy Gignac said she is happy with the selection of Thompson.

"We've worked with Christine before," Gignac said. "I'm looking forward to it. She's highly respected, (and) she knows the issues."

Lopez said he was proud to be a finalist, and believes Thompson will do a good job.

"Making it that far was definitely a good experience," Lopez said. "It's been a good learning experience. Christine will do a fantastic job."

ASUA President Tara Taylor said the governor deserves praise for her choice.

"I think she's an outstanding candidate," Taylor said. "I know she'll do an exemplary job serving the Board of Regents and the students."