The following is a statement from the Association of American Universities announcing that Brown University President Christina H. Paxson will serve as chair of the AAU Board of Directors:
The Association of American Universities members today elected Brown University President Christina H. Paxson as board chair. Paxson succeeds Indiana University President Michael A. McRobbie, who recently announced his retirement and had served as AAU chair since July 20, 2019. Her election marks the first time AAU has had both a female president and board chair simultaneously. University of Pittsburgh Chancellor Patrick D. Gallagher was elected to serve as vice chair.
“This is a moment of significant disruption in higher education, and engagement with federal lawmakers and policymakers regarding the impact of research, education, and scholarship is increasing in critical importance,” Paxson said. “I look forward to working with Barbara Snyder, AAU staff, and other AAU presidents to further the ability of research institutions to drive discovery that finds cures, saves lives, and fuels innovation that drives economic growth across the country."
As chair, Paxson will help guide AAU’s work and serve as a spokesperson for the association, particularly on federal policy issues affecting research universities. She will also represent AAU in discussions with lawmakers, help develop national policy positions, and play a significant role in determining the association’s agenda during the coming year.
“President Paxson’s experience as an economist and her expertise in public health make her particularly well-suited to help lead AAU during this time,” said AAU President Barbara R. Snyder. “Her position as a leader of a large, diverse university shows her keen understanding of the role research universities play in educating the next generation of leaders and scholars while transforming the economies of the world, the nation, and the cities and towns they serve.”
Paxson has served as president of Brown University since July 1, 2012. Previously, she was dean of the Princeton School of International and Public Affairs and the Hughes Rogers Professor of Economics and Public Affairs at Princeton University. Paxson became a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2017 and has previously served as vice chair of the AAU board.
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Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities is composed of America’s leading research universities. AAU’s 65 research universities transform lives through education, research, and innovation.
Our member universities earn the majority of competitively awarded federal funding for research that improves public health, seeks to address national challenges, and contributes significantly to our economic strength, while educating and training tomorrow’s visionary leaders and innovators.
AAU member universities collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of leading research universities to American society.