UM system general counsel selected
Published Oct. 9, 2007
Audio: Discussion regarding appointment of new general counsel
UM system Board of Curators Chairman Don Walsworth announced Friday that the board selected a replacement to fill the seat of retiring General Counsel Bunky Wright. At the close of last week's open meeting, Walsworth revealed that attorney Stephen Owens would be filling the spot.
"I am delighted to announce that Steve Owens will be bringing his outstanding leadership abilities and legal experience to the University of Missouri," Walsworth said. "Steve has a great love of our institutions."
Walsworth said he was looking forward to the start of Owens' work.
Walsworth outlined some of the general counsel's duties during the meeting. He said the office of general counsel was the equivalent of a top legal adviser for a $2-billion company.
"He will provide wise and competent guidance to the Board of Curators and university administration," he said.
Owens brings of 30 years experience in private-practicing general business, trade and athletic law to the UM system and has represented coaches and institutions in contract negotiations.
Owens is also a partner at Stinson Morrison Heckler LLP. He said in a news conference that he'd spent the last three years working with the UM general counsel's office in a consultant position.
Owens said having the opportunity to serve the university was a contributing factor to his taking the job.
"I am truly honored and humbled by this appointment," he said. "I very much look forward to being a member of the team."
Four generations of Owens' family have attended the university, including him, his father and his son.
Wright said there were many qualified candidates, and he was pleased that they were interested in the job. Although he was a participant in the board's search for new general counsel, he did not make the final call.
"The Board of Curators, not myself, made the selection," Wright said.
Walsworth said curators Cheryl Walker, John Carnahan, David Wasinger and Warren Erdman carried out the general counsel search.
Wright said he was happy that the board appointed Owens.
"I'm very pleased with the selection," he said. "I know he's a very fine lawyer, and he will do a fine job for the university."
Wright said Owens would start as general counsel on Jan. 22. Wright will hold the office of general counsel until that time.