Gov. Rendell Names State Rep. Joseph Preston as His Representative on the University of Pittsburgh Board of Trustees (April 2003)

Governor Edward G. Rendell announced on April 21, 2003 that State Representative Joseph Preston of Pittsburgh will serve as his representative on the Board of Trustees of the University of Pittsburgh. Preston has been a long-time friend of the lgbt community; the Gertrude Stein Political Club of Great Pittsburgh has endorsed his candidacy through many consecutive elections.

“I have asked Joe to serve as my representative on the University of Pittsburgh Board because he has served the City of Pittsburgh – including the University of Pittsburgh – with honor and distinction over the past two decades,” Governor Rendell said.  “He brings to the table a crucial knowledge of state government, including the manner in which we can harness the power of our universities to improve our economy and the quality of life for our children, families and seniors.” Gov. Rendell’s candidacy was also endorsed by GSPCGP.

Representative Preston was elected to the Pennsylvania House in 1982 and is serving his 11th consecutive term representing the 24th legislative district, comprised of the East End of the City of Pittsburgh.  Preston, a husband and father of two, is a graduate of Pittsburgh’s George Westinghouse High School and the University of Pittsburgh.  In Harrisburg, Representative Preston is the Minority Chairman of the Consumer Affairs Committee in the State House.

In addition to his service as a state representative, Representative Preston remains active in numerous community organizations and associations, including the Greater Pittsburgh Elks Lodge No. 115, IBPOE of W; the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Urban League; the NAACP Pittsburgh and Wilkinsburg Chapters; and the Highland Park Community Club. 

The University of Pittsburgh Board of Trustees is responsible for advancing the purposes of the University; promoting and protecting its independence, academic freedom, and integrity; and enhancing and preserving its assets for the benefit of future generations of students and society at large.  The Board of Trustees delegates general administrative, academic, and management authority to the Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of the University. The Board retains ultimate responsibility for all University affairs, and reserves its authority directly in at least three areas: selection of a Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer; approval of major institutional policies, particularly those related to the fiduciary responsibilities of the Board; and definition of the mission and goals of the University.