At the University of Arizona, the president’s refusal to sign a traditional shared-governance memorandum has sparked conflict with faculty and state lawmakers. Shared governance, codified in Arizona law, is at the center of a broader political push to redefine university decision rights and trustee authority. At the same time, resources for governing boards remain in focus: the Association of Governing Boards has released a toolkit on accreditation to guide trustees’ oversight responsibilities. Board members and campus leaders are confronting competing pressures—from state legislators seeking policy changes to faculty asserting academic autonomy. Why it matters: disruptions to shared governance affect curriculum approval, faculty hiring, and academic freedom. Trustees and presidents should expect increased legislative involvement and prepare governance communications that clarify roles, legal responsibilities, and risks to accreditation.