Rice president named chairman of AAU board of directors

The Association of American Universities (AAU) has elected David Leebron, president of Rice University, to serve as chairman of its board of directors.

“It’s a great privilege to work with Mary Sue Coleman and the extraordinary staff of the AAU to support the amazing work that takes place at our country’s most accomplished research universities,” he said. “These great universities are truly building the future, and have been a driving factor in the success of our economy. We must continue to nourish the research that advances understanding of our world and our humanity and, through that knowledge, produces the scientific and social innovations that address the challenges we face.”

Leebron’s appointment to the position began at the end of the AAU’s semiannual membership meeting on Oct. 25.

“David Leebron is well prepared to be an excellent AAU chair,” AAU President Mary Sue Coleman said. “He has a deep understanding of the critical roles research universities play not only in the nation but also in their states and communities. His long experience as president of Rice and his extensive participation in AAU activities during that time make him a natural leader for the association.”