Seven-term state senator Stegner to lobby for UI

MOSCOW — Idaho State Senator Joe Stegner will serve as University of Idaho President Duane Nellis' top assistant in Boise.

The University announced Friday that the Republican from Lewiston was chosen from a large pool of applicants in a competitive search that began in July.

The list of top three finalists included Wayne Hammon, Gov. Butch Otter's budget chief, and Idaho Grain Producers Executive Director Travis Jones.

Stegner will replace Marty Peterson as the university’s legislative liaison.

"We were pleased that so many strong candidates recognized the importance of working with Idaho's flagship university in serving residents throughout the state," said Nellis, in a prepared statement. "However, Joe's breadth and depth of experience in the legislature and business, as well as his commitment to education made him stand out from many other capable leaders."

Stegner is in the midst of a two-year term, his seventh in the Idaho Senate where he served previously as assistant majority leader.

The Nez Perce County GOP Central Committee will likely nominate a successor to replace Stegner in the state legislature. The candidate will be chosen by the governor.

Stegner is the former owner of Stegner Grain & Seed Company that he sold in 1995. He is also a graduate of the University of Idaho.