Posted on 12/09/2004 12:04:38 PM PST by calcowgirl
Connerly to step down as Regent
Influential figure will pursue goal to end affirmative action
WALNUT CREEK - Ward Connerly, the outspoken affirmative-action opponent who led the drive to end preferential college admissions in California, will not seek a second 12-year term as a University of California regent.
Connerly, 65, said he plans to step down from the governor-appointed UC board when his term ends March 1. He will attend his final board meeting next month.
A spokeswoman for Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who will appoint Connerly's replacement, declined to say whether Schwarzenegger had told Connerly that he would not be reappointed. She said the governor "appreciates (Connerly's) years of service and wishes him well."
She would not comment on possible replacements.
Weary of personal attacks and disagreements with his colleagues, Connerly said he will instead focus on ending affirmative action across the country.
(snip)
Connerly drew renewed criticism when he proposed adding a "multiracial" box to college applications. Regents last month rejected the change.
He also spearheaded the 2003 campaign for Prop. 54, which would have prohibited the state from collecting most kinds of racial data. Voters defeated the measure.
His latest focus has been a petition drive to place an affirmative-action ban on Michigan's 2006 ballot. That fight has already raised tensions, with critics pointing to Connerly's $1.1 million salary from his two nonprofit groups.
While the waves of criticism have helped prompt him to leave the UC board, Connerly said he is proud of his accomplishments.
"I have no regrets," he said. "I have a disappointment or two, but I gave it my all and I leave with my head held high."
(Excerpt) Read more at montereyherald.com ...
Darn right he'll be missed. I hope he comes back bigger than ever.
He should replace Mary Frances Berry on the US Civil Rights Commission. Better yet, he should be the Sect of Education. Is it too late for either?
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