With the death of UNA trustee Harvey Robbins, officials now have the task of replacing Robbins as an active trustee.

University spokesman Josh Woods said UNA President Bill Cale has been in discussions with Alabama Governor Robert Bentley’s office to find a replacement.

“It’s a fairly simple process, basically, anyone can nominate individuals for a board appointment or one can apply themselves through the governor’s office,” Woods said.

In Alabama, the governor appoints trustees and seeks approval from the legislature, he said.

“Obviously with him being a current board member, we would want the process to move forward quickly, but ultimately that power is within the governor’s office,” Woods said.

Last week, the Shoals and UNA communities mourned the loss of Robbins.

Robbins, 80, died Jan. 30. He served on the board since February 2004 and donated to the university regularly.

Most recently, Robbins donated $1 million to an endowed scholarship for students who graduate from his alma mater, Deshler High School in Tuscumbia.

“We are very saddened, but we are very proud that he was such a close part of our university family,” Woods said. “(We are just) very saddened of his passing and our thoughts are with his family and many friends.”

Officials would not speculate on a timeline for replacing Robbins but said the governor’s office will handle finding Robbins’ replacement.