The Yale Corporation, or Board of Trustees, is the university’s principal governing body. The Corporation has sixteen trustees: ten appointed successor trustees, each limited to two six-year terms; and six alumni fellows, chosen by alumni for staggered six-year terms. The president of the university is a member of and chairs the board. In addition, the governor and lieutenant governor of Connecticut are board members ex officio.
The Office of Institutional Affairs supports the Yale Corporation and manages matters related to its meetings, conducts the annual alumni fellow election on behalf of the Yale Alumni Association, and maintains records relating to the Corporation’s actions and decisions. Access to Corporation proceedings is restricted. The Miscellaneous Regulations of the university define the restrictions and how to request access.