Local Attorney Aims for Role in University Governance Following Legal Advocacy
Amir Makled, a civil rights attorney known for defending students and activists involved in protests at the University of Michigan, has taken a step further in his involvement with the institution. Makled has declared his candidacy for the Board of Regents, a body responsible for supervising the university’s operations.
Recently, Makled represented one of seven individuals charged with felonies by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office related to pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus. In January, Makled announced his intention to run for the Board of Regents. He officially launched his campaign with an event in Dearborn Heights this past week.
The Democratic nomination is Makled’s target as he aims to secure a position on the eight-member board, which holds “general supervision” over the university. Regents serve eight-year terms following state-wide elections, and they have a significant role in shaping policies on tuition, contracts, and budgeting.
Makled’s decision to pursue a seat on the Board of Regents is driven by his belief that legal victories alone are insufficient for enacting policy changes at universities. “Institutions like the University of Michigan can lose in a case or lose in a lawsuit,” he stated to his supporters. “But [if] they still keep writing those policies [and] those punishments, we’re never going to have a change until we are on that seat.”
His connection to the university dates back to his time at U-M Dearborn, which he describes as a campus designed for the “working class.” As a former student senator, Makled worked to keep tuition increases below inflation and spearheaded a student-driven online book exchange.
Makled’s campaign promises to extend his advocacy to the university’s highest level, with a focus on supporting professors, nurses, and students who he says are the foundation of the institution. He envisions a “movement” to ensure their voices are heard in university governance.
The terms of two Democratic regents, Jordan Acker and Paul Brown, expire in 2027. Both regents are eligible for re-election this year. Makled will need to secure his party’s nomination at the Michigan Democratic convention in April to appear on the state-wide ballot.
In addition to Makled, another Democrat, Sean Rositano, has also announced his candidacy. Rositano currently serves as a legislative director in the Michigan House of Representatives.
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