The University of Wyoming’s Board of trustees has recently found new blood after the resignation John MacPherson.
Laura Schmid-Pizzato, Governor Mead’s choice of successor to MacPhearson has been heavily involved in the affairs of Wyoming’s cultural and educational milieu, particularly in the Rock Springs area working with her local K-12 district and the Western Wyoming Community College, for over 26 years. Having graduated from the University of Wyoming with a bachelor’s in Spanish, then later a masters in social work from the University of Utah, Pizzato considers herself “a life long supporter of UW.”
Along with her work in the Rock Springs area as a licensed clinical social worker, Pizzato is also the President of Wyoming Congressional Award Council. Governor Mead touched upon “her unique background and points of view” marking her as a compelling candidate for a position on the board of trustees.
The seat of a trustee is rather sought after, with each occupant possessing a unique position from which they can influence the major policy and budgetary decisions of one of Wyoming’s largest institutions. To be appointed to the board requires a nomination by the governor and confirmation by the Wyoming senate. After which, a member, one of 12 who sits upon the board, is liable to a six-year term. In her six years Pizzato hopes to enhance the prospects of an institution that she believes is fundamentally “interconnected” to the “positive future of our state.” And that the University ought to be regarded not only in terms of ”educating our citizens, but that the university also is an essential community partner furthering research and initiatives around the state.”
