Dean Michael s presentation on March 6 before the House Higher Education Committee went well. All three meetings were very positive but the priorities these individuals are asked to represent are many. Dean Michael met with Steve Bosacker in laying the groundwork for a meeting with Governor Jessie Ventura. The Governor needs to become engaged and supportive. In discussion with Speaker of the House Steve Sviggum, Dean Michael concluded that the kind of medical school we want and Steve Sviggum envisions is the same.
Planning is underway for spring, summer, and fall.
By fall, all 42 key legislators should have been visited by a Medical School faculty member. MMA members have been sent a questionnaire asking for their perspective on the top three advocacy issues to address. Also, the support of the Board of Regents is necessary and will be sought after this summer. Council questioned who are our enemies or who opposes our request. Our biggest enemy is ourselves.