It would be a shame to see two members of the Kansas Board of Regents replaced.

Later this week, Gov. Bill Graves is likely to announce the names of those he would like to see become members of the Kansas Board of Regents. There are three potential openings on the nine-member board.

The regents are responsible for governance of the state’s six regents schools, the Kansas University Medical Center and about 30 community colleges and technical schools. In years past, regents did not play a particularly active role in their oversight of the universities. In recent years they have become far more active. This has been particularly true under the chairmanship of Tom Docking and his successor, Clay Blair. Both men devoted thousands of hours and traveled thousands of miles to do what they can for the benefit of Kansas’ system of higher education.

The regents can, and should, play a major role in the operation of the schools they oversee. There is reason to believe they could be even more involved, demanding performance by those directly in charge of each campus and making sure dollars are spent as wisely as possible.

At a time when Kansas is facing severe financial strains and monies for higher education are being reduced, it is the responsibility of the regents to take a hard look at duplications of academic programs, staffing, doctoral programs and other areas where egos, fiscal indiscretion and “keeping up with the Joneses” often result in unnecessary overspending.

It is unfortunate Graves seems intent on replacing Blair and Wichita Regent Steve Clark. The Kansas City and Wichita businessmen have done an excellent and effective job initiating new ideas as to how higher education needs can be met. Blair probably has spent more time working for higher education than any regent in recent history.

A news story a few days ago indicated Blair did not want to be reappointed. This is wrong! He would like to continue to serve. He does not want off the board as the news report stated. Clark did say he was not eager to be reappointed.

The past few years, partisan politics has not played a role in the activities and decisions of the regents.

Now it appears Graves intends to appoint former Senate leader Richard Bond to replace Blair. That would inject politics into the situation. Bond has been a close friend and long supporter of Graves. His past role in partisan politics, along with his role in the Senate, where he has admirers as well as detractors, is sure to follow him into his role as a regent.

With higher education so important to the state it is terribly important the governor appoint the best possible individuals to this body. They are the individuals who set the standards of performance expected of the chancellors and presidents. They are the ones, who by their demands for fiscal responsibility and accountability, their ability to alert the public to the importance of higher education, and, by the public respect they merit, create an understanding by state taxpayers on the true importance of higher education.

It is unfortunate Blair and Clark are not likely to be reappointed. Graves must have his reasons, and it is hoped those he nominates to this important board will realize the terribly important role and responsibility they have for the benefit and future of the state.