Former University of Nebraska regent Dr. Jim McClurg died on Monday. He was 81.
McClurg served on the Board of Regents from 2002-2012. The Bassett native was appointed in 2002 to fill the District 5 BoR seat. He was re-elected in 2006 to a full six year term. He did not seek re-election in 2012.
Former University of Nebraska President J.B. Milliken, now president at the Univerisity of California, told the Lincoln Jorurnal-Star: “He was very smart, he was completely ethical, he had great values, and he was funny. (McClurg) was a great colleague and great friend of mine, and we had a great partnership.”
Milliken was President at NU while McClurg was regent from 2004-2014.
Current University of Nebraska President Jeffrey Gold said in a Twitter statement: “Regent Emeritus McClurg was an innovator, a mentor, a champion of entrepreneurship and a staunch support of the University of Nebraska.
He wore many hats during his career – faculty member, scientist, CEO, and entrepreneur, among others – which gave him a broad perspective and an incredible focus on the future during his time on the NU Board of Regents.
Our institution, our state, and generations of students have benefitted, and will continue to benefit, from his leadership, vision and deep care.
McClurg was granted the title of “Regent Emeritus” by the board of regents in April of 2025 in recognition for his life of service to the university and the state.
McClurg earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Nebraska Wesleyan, and his Ph.D in Biochemistry from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 1973.
McClurg also served on the NU Foundation Board of Trustees.
After his time with the Board of Regents wrapped up, McClurg was notable for sitting behind the serving line at Husker Volleyball games at the Devaney Sports Center.