Gov. Abbott Appoints 2 New Texas Regents, Reappoints 1

Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday appointed two new members to the University of Texas System governing board, and re-appointed a long-standing member to a new six-year term.

Sara Martinez Tucker of Dallas is a former federal education official and is chief executive of the National Math and Science Initiative. David Beck is Houston trial lawyer who has represented the University of Texas at Austin in several high-profile court cases.

Steve Hicks, of Austin, was first appointed by Gov. Rick Perry in 2009 and owns the investment firm Capstar Partners.

According to state records, Hicks has donated $275,000 to Abbott political campaigns since 2010, and his wife was a member of Abbott's inaugural committee. Beck has donated $99,500 to Abbott since 2010.

The appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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