RCLP member Dr. Roger Catania (former Superintendent of the Lake Placid Central School District) discussed his unexpected journey to joining the board and provides an extensive overview of its functions. Roger explained that the Board of Regents is New York’s central policy-making body for education, overseeing not only K-12 and higher education but also the licensing and discipline for 56 professions and aspects of cultural education, including libraries and museums. He also highlights the Board of Regents' unique position as an independent agency, which often creates friction with the Governor's office, particularly around budget time. He touched upon the rich history of the board, noting famous past members like Alexander Hamilton and Kenneth Clark, concluding by addressing contemporary issues and the balancing act between public safety and streamlined licensing for professions like nursing.
