Lander University announced this week that a Presidential Search Committee has been formed to begin the process of finding the university's 13th chief executive officer.
In March, Lander President Daniel Ball informed the Board of Trustees of his intentions to retire effective June 30, 2015. He is the 12th president of the institution and has served in that role since 2000.
The 12-member Presidential Search Committee will be chaired by George Starnes, who serves as vice chair of the Lander University Board of Trustees. Other committee members are: Jack Lawrence, Board of Trustees Chair; Linda Dolny, Board of Trustees Secretary; Maurice Holloway, Board of Trustees; Anne Walker, Board of Trustees; Ray Hunt, Board of Trustees; Wes McAllister, Lander Foundation Board President; Len Bornemann, Community Representative; Renee Love, Academic Affairs Representative; Randy Bouknight, Student Affairs Representative; Erin Layland, Alumni Representative; and a student representative still to be named.
"We have a history of strong, talented leadership at Lander University, and we fully expect that tradition to continue with our next president," said Starnes. "The search committee understands the significance of this task, as it will mark the beginning of a new era for the university."
The committee's first meeting will be May 15, and Starnes said the first order of business will be to determine the diverse skills and characteristics sought in the next university president.
"Certainly, the next president will need senior executive experience and skills, strong academic credentials, fundraising capability, and the ability to create and implement an inspiring, realistic vision for Lander University. Understanding the uniqueness of running a state institution will also be important," Starnes said.
Following the search, the committee will present a list of applicants to a separate selection committee, which will determine the next steps to be taken in the process.