Manchikanti resigns from Board of Regents

    Board of Regents member Laxmaiah Manchikanti resigned from his position March 3.
    He was appointed by former Gov. Ernie Fletcher to the six-year term in August 2007. His term would have ended in June 2013.
    Sherry McClain, news bureau manager of publications and printing, stated in an e-mail that Manchikanti’s reasons for resignation dealt with professional demands and a lack of time to serve on the board.
    “He noted that he was honored to have been on the (b)oard and expressed an interest to stay involved and possibly serve again when his professional demands change,” McClain stated.
    Alan Stout, chair of the Board of Regents, said he understood the time constraints of a professional career and serving as regent.
       “At times board commitments can be much more time-consuming than others,” he said.
       Stout said Manchikanti contributed to the board through his insight, especially on health-related issues. Manchikanti is the medical director of the Pain Management Center in Paducah, Ky., and Marion, Ill.
       “As chair, I appreciate his service,” Stout said.
       He said Gov. Steve Beshear will appoint a new regent to finish Manchikanti’s term through 2013.
    A link on the governor’s Web site directs any prospective board member to an application to serve on the Board of Regents, Stout said. From there, a committee selects three applicants to recommend to the governor, who then appoints one of the prospects.
    He said the board may hold a special meeting regarding this appointment, but the board members hope to have someone by the next meeting on May 21.
    “I think service on the board can be personally rewarding,” Stout said.   
    Jill Midkiff, spokesperson for Gov. Beshear’s office, said the governor received Manchikanti’s resignation and will appoint someone to fill the vacant position as well as other positions that will become vacant in June.
     Stout’s and Vicki Travis’ terms will end in June.
    Contact Cash at laura.cash@murraystate.edu.