Get our free mobile app

Minneapolis, MN (KROC-AM News) - Former Minnesota House Speaker Steve Sviggum is stepping down as the Vice Chair of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents.

The former lawmaker from Kenyon made the announcement in a letter to Regents Chair Ken Powell that was made public by the U of M. In the letter, Swiggum indicated he was resigning from the leadership position but would continue serving on the Board of Regents until the end of his term next year.

The announcement followed widespread criticism over questions he raised during a Board of Regents meeting earlier this month. Swiggum asked, in reference to a significant decline in enrollment at the U of M campus in Morris, "Is it possible that at Morris we become too diverse…from a marketing standpoint." He went on to say that he had received two letters from friends who stated their children would not be enrolling at the Morris campus because they don't feel comfortable.

University of Minnesota photo
University of Minnesota photo
loading...

Following a wave of criticism and calls for his resignation, Swiggum reiterated that he had asked a question and was not making a comment, but later apologized "unequivocally" for his questions.

The Most Expensive Home for Sale in Minnesota: $15,250,000

Property Description: One of the finest residences in the upper Midwest! Landmark luxury estate on a spectacular private peninsula with almost 1,700’ of frontage on Wayzata Bay.

Completed in 2016, this breathtaking custom-built home is situated on the most coveted lot in MN. A long private driveway leads to the beautiful shake and stone home. Iconic Lake Minnetonka property known for the tallest residential flag pole in MN.

  • East coast shingle-style design and superb craftsmanship from Swan Architecture and Streeter Homes.
  • Panoramic lake views from almost every room!
  • Multiple decks, porches and patios maximize indoor and outdoor living.
  • Amenities include primary and catering kitchens, great room with soaring double vault ceiling, second primary bedroom on the main floor (currently an art studio), spa bath, 4-BR suites upstairs including the primary wing, theatre, golf simulator, combo recreation/garage space for up to 8 cars, boat house, and much more.
  • Park-like setting with a replica Nova Scotia lighthouse.

MLS# 6170775
Presented by: Jim Schwarz

More From KDHL Radio