Board of Visitors and Air University work together for quality education Published Nov. 2, 2012 By Kelly Deichert Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Al -- Air University's Board of Visitors meets Monday and Tuesday to discuss military education, ensuring quality instruction in a time of fiscal restraint. "Air University is in a time of transformation, and we are sharing that process with the Board of Visitors," said Dr. Bruce Murphy, vice president for academic affairs. "We have taken a number of steps to continue to deliver the highest quality military education within a culture of cost consciousness, and during this meeting we will update the board on progress we have made and the directions in which we are heading." The board meets several times a year to advise Lt. Gen. David Fadok, Air University commander and president, and AU staff on research, doctrine and policies. Members from various backgrounds, including several retired four-star generals, a former chief master sergeant of the Air Force, current and former university presidents and business people, provide objective viewpoints and guidance. The board consists of 28 members, appointed by the secretary of defense. "The Board of Visitors has wide-ranging responsibilities," Murphy said. "They are looking at, essentially, everything, including educational programs, facilities, financial resources and faculty qualifications, so that they can fully understand and make recommendations." Members are not compensated for their service, volunteering their time to help Air University maintain its high standards. "I really treasure these members," Murphy said. "They do this out of a sense of devotion to their country, and we are very grateful for what they do." The board has been meeting since 1946, when Gen. Muir S. Fairchild, the first Air University commander, established the BOV 15 days after the university was established. For more information, visit www.au.af.mil/au/bov/index.asp.