Photo: Protest at Sample Gates Against IU Trustee Takeover by Governor Braun

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Removal and Replacement of Trustees:
Governor Mike Braun removed all three alumni-elected members of Indiana University’s Board of Trustees: Vivian Winston, Jill Maurer Burnett, and Donna Spears. This action was facilitated by a new law that granted the governor authority to appoint all board members, eliminating the traditional alumni election process. In their place, Braun appointed three individuals:

• Sage Steele: Former ESPN anchor known for her conservative viewpoints.
• James Bopp Jr.: Attorney known for his role in advancing conservative legal causes, including his involvement in the Citizens United case, which allowed unlimited corporate and union spending in elections, and for laying the legal groundwork that contributed to the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
• Brian Eagle: Indianapolis estate attorney.

Additionally, W. Quinn Buckner was reappointed as the board’s chair, despite a new term limit law that would typically prevent a fourth term.

Legislative Changes:
The law enabling these changes was introduced as a late addition to Indiana’s state budget in April 2025. This provision granted the governor full control over appointing the nine-member Board of Trustees, effectively removing the alumni’s role in electing board members. Critics argue that this move undermines the democratic process and concentrates power in the executive branch.

Legal Challenges:
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Indiana has filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the new law. The lawsuit contends that the law violates Indiana’s constitutional ban on “special legislation” that benefits specific entities. The ACLU and other critics express concern that this change diminishes alumni influence and could lead to increased political favoritism in university governance.

Governor’s Justification:
Governor Braun defended the changes by highlighting the low participation rate in alumni elections, noting that only 1.7% of alumni voted in the last election. He argued that the new appointments would better align the university’s direction with state interests and improve efficiency.

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