The Ƶ Provost Search Committee met last week in Pittsburgh to interview nine semifinalists. Four were chosen as finalists and will be invited for on-campus interviews in October. The interview dates will be announced as soon as arrangements with the candidates have been made.

Following a national search assisted by a consulting firm, the committee received 54 applications and then met on September 11 to choose the nine semifinalists. Each one met with the committee in a conference room near the Pittsburgh Airport.

Four candidates had a particularly strong combination of experience, background, references, and successful interview.

Prior to each campus visit, candidate vitas will be available for review and a schedule of meeting opportunities will be published.

“Everyone in the Ƶ community will be invited to meet the four candidates and offer their input,” said Professor Ben Rafoth, chair of the committee.

The 15-member search committee consists of faculty members, administrators, students, and deans. In addition to Rafoth, they are:

  • Francisco Alarcon, Mathematics
  • William Balint, IT Services
  • Patricia Connell, Developmental Studies
  • Brian Jones, Theater
  • Matthew Klitsch, undergraduate student
  • Timothy Mack, Graduate Studies and Research
  • Jack Makara, Student Affairs
  • Theresa McDevitt, Ƶ Libraries
  • Kelli Paquette, Professional Studies
  • Teresa Shellenbarger, Nursing
  • Deanne Snavely, Natural Sciences and Mathematics
  • Elizabeth Solomonides, graduate student
  • Ramesh Soni, Management
  • Cornelius Wooten, Administration and Finance
  • Patti Krausslach, President's Office, provides administrative support