Ann Arbor Times

FOIA Request to University of Michigan Ann Arbor regarding University Board Member Information on October 22, 2025.

The Ann Arbor Times has submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the University of Michigan Ann Arbor. The request seeks specific records related to the university's governing board or board of trustees. The requested information includes a current list of board members with their full names, titles or positions, and terms of service. Additionally, the request asks for any official headshots, portraits, or photographs maintained by the university for use in official publications, directories, or on its website. Furthermore, it seeks any official biographies or biographical summaries prepared or maintained by the university that are used for press releases, board directories, or public profiles.

The Ann Arbor Times emphasizes its role as a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. As such, access to these public records is deemed essential for fulfilling professional responsibilities that include holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency to the public. The request also notes that as a member of the media involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, there is an eligibility claim for a fee waiver under FOIA provisions.

Additionally, it is noted that the requester is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization assisting media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws. More information about this coalition can be found at https://stopsecrecy.org/about/.

Our team will continue to keep you updated as we gather and report news related to this request and other matters of public interest. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this matter.