Lena Epstein, a Republican and business executive, is running for the University of Michigan Board of Regents in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election.

Six candidates are competing for two eight-year seats, according to the Michigan Department of State’s candidate list. Michigan voters may choose up to two candidates in the statewide race.

The Birmingham-Bloomfield Bulletin candidate questionnaire was sent to Lena Epstein’s campaign. No response was received as of Oct. 29, 2026. The policy positions below are drawn from her public campaign website and public records.

The other candidates are Democrats Paul Brown and Amir Makled, Republican Michael Schostak, Libertarian Andrew Chadderdon and Kyle Maas of the U.S. Taxpayers Party.

Candidate information

  • Party: Republican.
  • Office sought: University of Michigan Board of Regents.
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree, Harvard University; MBA, University of Michigan.
  • Professional background: Co-owner, board member and executive at Vesco Oil Corporation.

Her education is described in her Ballotpedia profile, and her business roles appear in her campaign biography.

Experience and public service

Epstein’s professional experience includes helping lead her family’s automotive and industrial lubricant distribution business.

She was the Republican nominee for Michigan’s 11th Congressional District in 2018 and previously ran for the University of Michigan Board of Regents in 2022, according to Ballotpedia.

Her campaign emphasizes her business management experience as preparation for overseeing university finances and leadership.

On the issues

The following positions come from Epstein’s campaign platform.

Tuition and student costs: Epstein proposes limiting tuition growth through tighter budgeting and prioritizing classroom spending over administrative expansion. She also supports lowering student housing costs, expanding need-based financial aid and helping students graduate on time.

Access for Michigan students: Epstein supports increasing the number of places available to Michigan residents at the Ann Arbor campus. She also proposes strengthening pathways from Michigan high schools and community colleges into the university.

Career preparation: Epstein supports internships and apprenticeships that connect students with employment in Michigan after graduation.

Financial oversight: Epstein calls for more transparent spending and stronger oversight of university leadership. She identifies preventing waste and fraud as priorities.

Campus safety: Epstein says she would work to protect students from harassment and combat antisemitism.

“The University of Michigan must remain focused on its core mission: educating students, advancing research, and serving the people of Michigan,” her campaign website states.

Voters can find additional information about Epstein’s background and proposals on her campaign website.