Definition

Noun: A governing or supervisory committee, typically within a university or higher education system, that has general oversight over student welfare, conduct, and often broader institutional policies.

Usage

This term refers specifically to an official administrative body. It is a singular collective noun, so it can take a singular or plural verb depending on whether the group is being considered as a single unit or as individuals. * The board of regents is responsible for setting tuition fees. (Singular verb, emphasizing the board as one entity) * The board of regents are divided on the issue. (Plural verb, emphasizing the individual members)

Examples

• The university's board of regents approved the new code of student conduct.
• All major financial decisions must be ratified by the board of regents.
• She was appointed to serve a six-year term on the state board of regents.

Advanced Usage

• "To come before the board of regents": To present an issue or proposal for their official consideration and decision.
  • The new academic program will come before the board of regents next month.
• "Regental authority/powers": Refers to the official jurisdiction and decision-making capacity granted to this board.
  • Hiring the university president falls under regental authority.

Variants and Related Words

• Board of Trustees (noun): A very similar governing body, often used interchangeably with "board of regents" in some institutions, though sometimes with slightly different legal or hierarchical responsibilities.
• Regent (noun): An individual member serving on a board of regents.
• Regency (noun): The office, period of rule, or jurisdiction of a regent or board of regents.

Synonyms

• Governing board
• Board of governors
• Supervisory committee

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "The regents have spoken": A phrase indicating that a final, authoritative decision has been made by the governing body, leaving no room for further debate.
  • The budget cuts are final; the regents have spoken.

Noun

1. a committee of university officers who have general supervision over the welfare and conduct of students