America needs leadership. We face great challenges as a nation, and in order to tackle them head on in a successful manner, we need effective leaders willing to stand up for what’s right. I plan to do my part as a nominee for the position of Regent at the University of Michigan.
I plan to make a positive difference for generations to come by joining the University of Michigan Board of Regents and by bringing common sense, accountability, transparency and a fresh perspective to the university.
Let’s face it. The University of Michigan is facing an identity crisis. Let’s restore its place as the greatest public university in the world, following a series of unacceptable actions by individuals in the highest positions of authority at the University.
Former university president, Dr. Mark Schlissel, was forced out in disgrace following what the University described as an “inappropriate relationship with a university employee.” The actions by Dr. Schlissel tarnished the integrity of the school and sowed distrust in the current university leadership.
The school was forced to pay one of the largest settlements in the history of higher education after the horrific actions of Dr. Robert Anderson came to light. The fact that Dr. Anderson reportedly assaulted young students for four decades is unconscionable and deserves further investigation.
I understand, firsthand, how sexual abuse can permanently impact an individual with trauma and feelings that are impossible to put into words. As a survivor of sexual assault and domestic abuse, I will tackle these issues head on and ensure everyone’s voice is heard.
For these reasons, and others, I chose to run for an unpaid and often thankless position on the University of Michigan Board of Regents. I’m doing it for my four-year-old daughter Emma, and for all of our children’s future.
This year, I am running as a change-maker. I will bring accountability and transparency to the University to ensure Michigan taxpayers know how and where their money is being spent.
I understand what it takes to get things done. I’ll fight for every Michigander, regardless of partisan political persuasion, because that’s what the role demands. As a member of the Board of Regents, I won’t be representing just Republicans or Democrats, I’ll represent all Michiganders and our common interests at the University of Michigan.
I’ll hold powerful people accountable and ensure Michigan families have a fair shot to send their children to the University. I am a fourth-generation graduate, and I want to ensure all Michiganders have a fair shot at attending.
I come from a family of hardworking immigrants and entrepreneurs. My mother’s father is Stanley Winkelman of Winkelman’s Stores and my father’s father is Eugene Epstein of Vesco Oil Corporation. My parents instilled in me the values that most Americans hold dear; work hard, treat people with respect, stand up for what’s right and give back what you can.
These values are tried and true.
We must ensure the school is preparing students for the future. Unfortunately, in many cases, graduates are often ill-equipped and ill-prepared for a good-paying job with mountains of debt. I will make sure the school keeps the focus on what matters and ceases to waste public money on superfluous
I attended Harvard University and graduated with a degree in Economics. I’m a proud Harvard graduate and learned so much during my four years in Cambridge. After graduating from Harvard, I returned home and joined the family business.
I attended the University of Michigan, Ross School of Business while working with the company and continue to serve on various community boards. I’ve continued to give back the community and now I am stepping up for my daughter’s future, and all of our children’s future.
It’s time for a change. It's time to restore Michigan’s greatness.
That’s why I’m running for the University of Michigan, Board of Regents. To restore Michigan’s greatness and ensure every Michigander can be proud of the Maize and Blue, because every Michigander is connected to the University of Michigan.
Lena Epstein is a successful business owner, philanthropist and conservative leader. She is co-owner of Vesco Oil Corporation and currently running for the University of Michigan Board of Regents.