Wilson won't run in '08 to keep regent seat

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By MELISSA LEE / Lincoln Journal Star

University of Nebraska Regent Charles Wilson said Tuesday he won’t run for re-election next year, leaving his District 1 seat open to the first new face since 1990.

Eighteen years on the board is enough, said Wilson, of Lincoln.

“It’s important to have fresh ideas on a board likes ours,” he said.

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Regent Charles Wilson

Regent Charles Wilson

Wilson, 69, a retired cardiologist, currently serves as regents chairman. His term will last through January 2009, when the new regent will take over.

District 1 covers most of Lancaster County.

Earl Scudder, 65, a longtime Lincoln attorney, already has announced his candidacy for the seat. Scudder was among the contenders Wilson defeated on his way to his 1990 victory.

Fellow Lincoln attorney Tim Clare also has expressed interest in Wilson’s seat, although he has said he would wait for Wilson’s decision before making his own. The two are close family friends.

“We as Nebraskans owe (Wilson) a debt of gratitude for his exemplary service,” Clare said Tuesday. As for his own decision: “Stay tuned.”

Wilson said he’s proud of his efforts to emphasize teaching at NU, push for more aggressive recruiting, keep faculty salaries competitive and encourage more gender and racial diversity across the university.

He said he hopes one or more women will run next year for a seat on the board, whose eight voting members are now all male.

“Serving on the Board of Regents has been one of the most rewarding, satisfying experiences of my life,” Wilson said.

Reach Melissa Lee at 473-2682 or mlee@journalstar.com.