Judith Haggard resigns from UM System Board of Curators

COLUMBIA — Judith Haggard resigned from the UM System Board of Curators on Tuesday, citing personal reasons that prevent her from fulfilling her position.

In a University of Missouri System news release, Haggard said it was an honor to work for the system and that she's grateful to have served the state on the board.

Haggard was appointed as a curator in 2007 by then-Gov. Matt Blunt. In 2010, she served as chairwoman of the board.

UM System spokeswoman Jennifer Hollingshead said the system would not be commenting further on Haggard's reasons for stepping down.

Haggard represented the 8th Congressional District for the board. Missouri Press Secretary Scott Holste said Gov. Jay Nixon will appoint a replacement to finish Haggard's term, which will expire in January 2013.

There is no timetable to appoint a replacement, Holste said.

David Bradley, chairman of the curators, said Haggard's passion for higher education will be greatly missed.

"She made it a personal mission to ensure that the University of Missouri remains in the top tier in both research and education and that our campuses provide an affordable education to the state's citizens so they are equipped with the tools to become contributing members of society," Bradley said. "We wish her all the best."

Haggard received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from MU and a master's degree in nursing from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She is a nurse practitioner from Kennett.