Cynthia Wilbanks nominated as vice president for government relations

September 10, 1998
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Cynthia Wilbanks nominated as government relations vice president

ANN ARBOR—Cynthia H. Wilbanks has been recommended as vice president for government relations at the University of Michigan. Her appointment, pending approval by the U-M Regents at its Sept. 16-17 meeting, will be effective Sept. 18. Wilbanks, who has been U-M’s associate vice president for university relations since 1995, is “a gifted administrator and an astute student of politics who understands and appreciates the dynamic relationship between the state and its institutions of higher education,” said U-M President Lee C. Bollinger. “She has done an excellent job representing the University in Lansing, as evidenced by the state’s strong support of the University’s general fund and capital outlay programs, and our excellent relations with the Legislature and the governor’s office.

“I look forward to having Ms. Wilbanks as an executive officer and to the leadership and wisdom she will bring to all of the University’s government relations efforts.”

Wilbanks will direct the University’s government relations programs at the local, state and federal levels. Her responsibilities will include planning and developing the institution’s response to proposed legislation; developing and maintaining effective relationships with governmental agencies and officials; and analyzing and assessing legislative, administrative and regulatory activities as they pertain to University programs, activities and operations. She also will supervise the activities of the State Outreach Office.

Wilbanks brings to her new post broad experience in government, including candidacy for U.S. Congress from Michigan’s 13th District in 1994, service as district director for U.S. Congressman Carl D. Pursell in 1979-92, Washtenaw County field representative for Pursell in 1977-79, and staff assistant for U.S. Congressman Marvin Esch in 1973-76.

She was president of Michigan’s Children, a statewide child advocacy organization, in 1993-95, prior to joining the U-M in 1995.

Wilbanks earned a B.A. degree in political science from the U-M in 1973.

She is a member of and holds leadership positions in a number of community and civic organizations, including serving on the boards of directors of the Bank of Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, Glacier Hills Retirement Center, Riverside Arts Center Foundation, NEW Center, State of Michigan United Way.

Wilbanks was named an Outstanding Young Woman of America in 1981. Other honors include the Director’s Award for Outstanding Service from the Michigan Technology Council and the Volunteer Service Award from Washtenaw United Way.


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