At last week's regents meeting, interim University President Homer Neal talked about the need to connect research benefits to the private sector.
Neal will now have the first-hand experience of linking his research and technological expertise to one of America's biggest corporations - Ford Motor Co.
The automobile company elected Neal to the Board of Directors last Thursday, a move that was announced Tuesday afternoon.
"He brings a unique perspective," said Chris Vinyard, a Ford spokesperson. Vinyard said Neal's "experience in science and research" will be a strong asset to the board.
"It's helpful to have somebody on the board with that experience and background," Vinyard said.
Prior to serving as interim president, Neal was chair of the physics department and vice president for research. He currently serves on the board of the Smithsonian Institution.
Vice President for University Relations Walter Harrison said Neal would bring several qualities to Ford.
"I think he's very attractive to them on a number of fronts," Harrison said. "He has a great deal of experience in public policy, especially in research and development."
Ford will pay Neal at least $69,000 a year. Neal currently receives just over $260,000 for serving as president but will likely finish his term by the middle of next year.
Harrison said former Presidents James Duderstadt and Harold Shapiro both sat on corporate boards. "I think it's pretty widespread," Harrison said. "Obviously, the more prestigious the University or college, the more likely you are to be approached."
Vinyard said the responsibility of the board is to assemble management personnel and direction.
"They're the final say in determining management," he said.
Most members of Ford's Board of Directors work in business. However, Clifton Wharton, former president of Michigan State University, sits on the board too.
Alex Trotman, chair and CEO of Ford, said in a written statement that Neal will contribute to the balance of the board members' talents.
"Technical expertise is vital to the success of our company, and the board has acted to add a highly skilled, technical person, with a deep and thorough understanding of research and development," Trotman said. "Dr. Neal is an excellent addition to our board."
JOSH BIGGS/Daily
Homer Neal, interim University president will soon join the Ford board.