Hull appoints new regent

Kay McKay, 55, will take over for departing Regent Kurt Davis, who held his post since 1996 but stepped down in February to become a Northern Arizona University administrator.

"I really highly respect and regard students, and that's one very important constituency that I represent," said McKay, who runs Big Brothers-Big Sisters of Flagstaff.

"I'm honored and somewhat surprised that I got the appointment," she added. "It is brand new for me."

Gov. Jane Hull announced yesterday that McKay will serve out Davis' term, which expires in 2002.

During a phone interview yesterday, McKay declined comment on pressing university issues, including the ongoing University of Arizona CatCard debacle, privatization pushes and setting next year's tuition.

"I've only been a regent for four minutes," she said. "I'm very authentic and very open when I make up my mind, but it's very dangerous to start commenting before I have full information."

Davis had been lauded for his prowess in legislative and university budget dealings, and McKay said she believes she can help fill his shoes on the legislative side.

"I'm very at-hand with the university structure here and I'm fairly familiar with the legislative process," she said, citing her 7-year tenure on the Arizona Liquor Board, including three years as chairwoman.

"I think I have an ability to focus and be very clear in the decision-making process," she said.

McKay attended Northern Arizona University from 1961 to 1965, and with her addition, the board of regents will have at least one member from each of the three state universities.

"The board of regents sets the direction for Arizona's system of higher education," Hull stated in a news release. "I feel it is important that it be as representative of our universities as possible."

Regent Judy Gignac said because of her background in conciliation and mediation, McKay will be a good problem solver on the board of regents.

"She has no specific agenda and she is open to issues," Gignac said. "I am very pleased to one, welcome another woman on the board and two, get a perspective from the northern and rural parts of the state."

Regent Jack Jewett said McKay is a hardworker and a quick learner.

"I know her by reputation - and it's excellent," he said.

Raised in Tucson, McKay serves as a field instructor for NAU's Social and Behavioral Sciences Department. She also has taught leadership and board development courses for Coconino County Community Colleges.

McKay also has received the Flagstaff Citizen of the Year award from the Arizona Daily Sun and the Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Business Woman of the Year prize.

Wildcat reporters Susan Carroll and Angela Romano contributed to this report.