As part of the ongoing efforts to improve the effectiveness of the university's management, operations and programs systemwide, UC Regents have also been taking a close look at themselves.

At their March meeting, the Regents adopted several reforms that will establish orientation and mentoring programs for new regents, periodic forums to discuss planning and governance issues, a process to evaluate the board's performance, and guidelines that clarify the duties and responsibilities of the board.

The Regents serve as trustees for the people of California and as stewards for the university to guide its educational, research and public service missions. In that role, the Regents approve and review major policies and programs; ensure that good planning is conducted to assess the quality and progress of university goals; fulfill fiduciary, budget and audit responsibilities; protect UC's financial and capital assets and investments; ensure adequate resources and their effective management; and foster the university's relationships with other social, educational and business enterprises.

The improvements are a product of review of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges' recommendations on governance as well as review of best practices at other universities and the principles outlined in the recent report on restructuring the UC Office of the President.