Governor Martz Commends Board of Regents For Recognizing Economic Development

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 19, 2001
Contact: Mary Schwarz
406-444-5523

(Helena) - Governor Judy Martz today commended Board of Regents Chairperson Margie Thompson and the members of the board for adopting her suggestions to include Montana's economic health as a key component of the University System's mission statement.

"Economic development is the cornerstone of our administration," Governor Martz said. "I am happy to have the University System join us in our efforts to improve the economic well-being of our state."

In their conference call Friday afternoon, the Board of Regents updated the Montana University System's mission statement to include the words 'to preserve and advance Montana's economy and society.'

Governor Martz sent a letter Thursday to the board, requesting that they adopt 'a mission statement that unequivocally recognizes and supports the university system's important role in economic development in Montana.'

"A mission statement that reflects the strong role universities play in economic development would directly support and compliment the strategic economic plan that I am now developing," said Governor Martz in her letter.

"Educating Montanans so they have the skills to meet the needs of our state's growing and changing economy is vitally important, and it is clear that a strong educational system will be a major factor in successful economic development in Montana."

In their conference call, the Board of Regents also indicated a strong desire to work with the state, the federal government, Montana's congressional delegation, tribal governments, K-12 education and business and labor groups to achieve their goals.

"I want to thank the Regents for recognizing the need to partner with the state and other key business, government and community leaders," said Governor Martz.

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