Chris Boehning elected Board of Trustees chair

Boehning, who joined the board in 2017, is a valued leader and University supporter.

The University of Rochester Board of Trustees elected Chris Boehning '87, '88 (MS) as board chair at its September meeting. Boehning begins his term as chair immediately and succeeds Rich Handler '83, who announced the transition in August after completing his fourth and final term, bringing his service on the University board to 20 years.

Boehning has served as a University trustee since 2017. He is a partner in the litigation department at the law firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP in New York City, representing clients in a wide variety of complex commercial and civil litigation matters, criminal, civil and other regulatory inquiries, and international arbitrations. He is also a driving force behind Paul, Weiss's sports practice, while maintaining a robust pro bono practice with a particular focus on gun violence prevention. In 2021, he was highlighted as a "Sports, Gaming & Entertainment Trailblazer" by The National Law Journal, which recognizes sports and entertainment lawyers who have had the greatest impact in these industries. For his dedication to gun violence prevention, he was named a 2022 "Northeast Trailblazer" by The American Lawyer in connection with the historic $73 million settlement on behalf of the Sandy Hook families.

A political science major, Boehning was also a standout member of Rochester's men's varsity soccer team. In 2017, he provided a leadership gift to establish the Boehning Varsity House within Genesee Hall at the Brian F. Prince Athletic Complex, reflecting his belief that college athletics are a key component of the undergraduate experience. He also provides ongoing support to Rochester through the George Eastman Circle, the University's leadership annual giving society. In his time as a University trustee, he has led the Litigation Committee, chaired the Committee on Audit & Risk Assessment, and contributed his time and expertise to many other volunteer roles. Boehning has also chaired both the Arts, Sciences & Engineering National Council and the Athletic Campaign Committee, and is a member of Friends of Rochester Athletics.

In 2012, he received the University's John N. Wilder Award. Named for John Wilder, the University's first ever Board chair, the award honors philanthropy that inspires others in support of "Ever Better." And in 2016, Boehning received University Athletics' Garnish Memorial Citation.

"Chris has demonstrated his commitment to the University and the board in very meaningful ways by being a key adviser, a dedicated alumnus, and a champion of the student experience," says University President Sarah Mangelsdorf. "I very much look forward to continuing to partner with Chris on advancing our key strategic initiatives, especially as we embark upon our comprehensive campaign."

"I continue to be amazed by the talent, drive, and vision of the University of Rochester community, which is always innovating," Boehning says. "It is an honor to serve as the new board chair. We look to the future with deep gratitude for Rich Handler's strong board leadership that has guided us so well for many years. I hope to build on that legacy with the same integrity, dedication and Meliora spirit to help enable our great university to reach new heights."

Boehning earned a bachelor's degree in political science and master's degree in public policy analysis from the University of Rochester in 1987 and 1988, respectively, and a law degree from Washington University School of Law in 1994.

Gratitude to outgoing chair Rich Handler

Handler, CEO of investment bank Jefferies, completed his fourth and final five-year term as a member of the board at the September meeting. He joined the board in 2005 and served as chair since 2018. He now is board chair emeritus.

In addition to being board leader, he also has served as chair of the Investment Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee over the years. He was cochair of the University's historic $1.37 billion comprehensive campaign, the Meliora Challenge, which successfully concluded in 2016. Among his generous philanthropies to the University are the prestigious Alan and Jane Handler Scholarships. Named in honor of Handler's parents, the scholarships provide in perpetuity complete financial support for exceptional undergraduates who have overcome adversity, demonstrate outstanding academic and leadership potential, and have significant financial need. Rich Handler and his wife, Martha, established the program in 2007 with an ultimate commitment of $25 million, and to date, 173 Handler Scholars have either enrolled or graduated from the University.

He earned his bachelor's degree in economics magna cum laude with high distinction from the University in 1983 and his MBA from Stanford University.

"I'm extremely grateful for everything Rich has done for the University," Mangelsdorf says. "His love for the University is unmatched, and his dedication to student success is remarkable, helping guide our learners with purpose and ensuring that they never lose sight of their potential to grow, thrive, and lead here. Rich has made our institution ever better and positioned us very well for the future."

"It's been an honor and privilege to serve our great University of Rochester," Handler says. "I will always be appreciative that I found my way to Rochester in 1979, and I know my heart will never leave our fine institution."