Bismarck, N.D. (AP) North Dakota voters have rejected a plan to dump the State Board of Higher Education in favor of a full-time commission.
The measure on Tuesday's ballot was originally proposed by lawmakers who believe the board has done a poor job of managing a large system and have granted too much power to university presidents. Opponents believed the move would limit academic freedom and affect accreditation.
The board is a part-time group with eight members who are appointed by the governor. The change would have replaced the board with a three-member commission.
The board has scheduled a special meeting Thursday to outline the plan to hire a new chancellor. Former Bismarck State College President Larry Skogen has been serving as interim chancellor.