The University of the Arctic (UArctic) is an international cooperative network based in the Circumpolar Arctic region, consisting of universities, colleges, and other organizations with an interest in promoting education and research in the Arctic region. UArctic was launched on June 12, 2001, endorsed by the Arctic Council and in conjunction with the tenth anniversary of the Rovaniemi Process and the Arctic Environmental Protection Strategy. Member institutions There are more than 150 members in the University of the Arctic. There are 37 members from Canada, 13 from Denmark, 1 from the Faroe Islands, 17 from Finland, 3 from Greenland, 10 from Iceland, 16 from Norway, 55 from Russia, 7 from Sweden, 27 from the United States and 38 from non-Arctic countries (Austria (1), Belgium (1), Czech Republic (1), China (15), France (1), Germany (1), India (1), Ireland (1), Italy (1), Japan (1), Korea (2), Mongolia (1), the Netherlands (1) and the United Kingdom (10), plus the International Polar Foundation). Most UArctic members are higher education institutions, but other members include circumpolar indigenous organizations and research institutions. Organization, governance, and administration The University of the Arctic is governed by a structure in which the member institutions are represented through various mechanisms. It has evolved steadily since the organization's founding in 2001, with the latest addition being the Rectors' Forum (2006). Council and Toyon The foundation of the structure is the annual UArctic Council, which consists of representatives from all member institutions. It holds powers roughly corresponding to the parliament of a parliamentary democracy. Between Council meetings, the executive committee, Toyon, deals with relevant issues. Toyon consists of the chair, the Vice-secretary and the Chairs of all standing committees. All these positions are elected by the council. Board of Governors The "government" of UArctic is the Board of Governors, which is also elected by the council. At the Board meetings, the President and leader of the International Secretariat also participate. The Board works with the Council and Administration on relevant issues, and may delegate specific tasks. President The President of UArctic is the organization's chief executive officer and is responsible for overall administration and the development and delivery of its programs. S/he is accountable to the Board for the overall management of the university and elected by the council. The President participates ex officio in meetings of the council, Toyon and the Board, and may form committees or other subsidiary bodies to