Saint Paul -- Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of William Hogan, David Laird, and James McCormick to the Midwestern Higher Education Commission.

William Hogan is Chief Executive Officer of the Hogan Company, an investment firm. He is also a member of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents. He replaces Robert Bruininks on the Commission, and is appointed to a term ending January 3, 2005.

David Laird is President and Chief Executive Officer at the Minnesota Private College Council, Fund, Research Foundation and Partners for Education Opportunity. He is reappointed to another four-year term, ending January 1, 2007. He serves as the Governor's designee on the Commission.

James McCormick is the Chancellor of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU). He is reappointed to another four-year term, ending January 1, 2007. He serves as the member representing the field of higher education.

The Midwestern Higher Education Commission is a nonprofit regional organization established by interstate compact and devoted to achieving greater cost effectiveness in higher education. The Commission serves 853 public and private nonprofit colleges, universities, community colleges, and technical colleges in ten member states. The Commission is made up of five members from each state, including three gubernatorial appointees, one State Senator, and one State Representative.