Minnesota Legislature Taps Insurance Agent for University Board

The Minnesota Legislature has selected an insurance agency owner to serve on the University of Minnesota’s Board of Regents.

Thomas Devine was elected a regent during a recent joint House-Senate convention.

He replaces Steve Sviggum, who resigned his seat on the board when concerns were raised about his full-time job conflicting with the appointed role. Sviggum, a former state lawmaker, is chief spokesman for the Minnesota Senate Republican caucus.

The 12-member board sets policy and budgets for the four-campus university. Members are not paid.

Devine lives in Chanhassen. He co-owns the David Agency in Edina and is a university graduate.