Who has the authority to fill vacancies on the Board?

The Governor holds the authority to fill vacancies on the Board. This power stems from the role that the Governor plays in overseeing state functions and appointments, ensuring that the Board can maintain its operations and meet its governance needs without interruption. The appointment process managed by the Governor is critical as it helps maintain the integrity and continuity of the Board’s leadership and decision-making processes.

The role of the Governor in filling vacancies is consistent with the broader responsibilities they have within state government, where they often appoint individuals to various boards and commissions to ensure that they reflect the Governor's vision and priorities for the state. The appointments also require consideration of qualifications, experience, and the ability to contribute effectively to the Board’s objectives.

In contrast, while positions like the President of the Board and the Secretary of State may hold significant responsibilities, they do not have the authority to make such appointments. Similarly, the Lieutenant Governor's role is separate and distinct from that of the Governor in this context, further clarifying why the correct answer is the Governor.