Search committee follows aggressive schedule

The Chancellor Search Committee could be ready to recommend a new campus leader by February, committee chair Phillip R. Dixon says.

Dixon, also chairman of the university Board of Trustees, said the panel is on an aggressive timetable to conclude its work as soon as possible. The committee, meeting with consultant Jan Greenwood on Aug. 16, fine-tuned the leadership statement and, in closed session, discussed some individuals whose names had been suggested as candidates.

Greenwood, an ECU alumna and vice president of the A.T. Kearney search firm in Alexandria, Va., said about 90 potential candidates had been contacted about the job. Dr. Richard Eakin announced in the spring that he will retire as chancellor as soon as a successor arrives on campus.

The leadership statement, which will be sent to interested individuals, describes the university and its strategic goals. It also enumerates qualifications and characteristics sought in a chancellor.

Qualifications include an advanced degree, with a doctorate preferred; 10 years of successful executive leadership experience and management of a diverse, complex organization; and strong academic credentials in teaching, research and service. Among the characteristics listed are a deep commitment to academic quality and outstanding teaching; ability to provide visionary leadership in the development and articulation of the strategic vision and mission of ECU; a proven track record as a successful fundraiser; and an ability to effectively represent, strengthen and expand relationships for the university with various constituencies, including the Board of Trustees, alumni, legislators, and the community at large. Members of the search committee also heard comments from about a dozen people during two public forums scheduled to gather input on the selection.

Rand Evans (psychology) told the panel that the new chancellor should be from an academic background, should have loyalty to ECU, and should recognize the value of the liberal arts and sciences as the core of the university. Alex Albright (English) said the committee should be certain that finalists for the position are aware of the history and significance of historic campus structures and landmarks such as Christenbury Memorial Gymnasium and the Flanagan Sylvan Theatre. The committee tentatively scheduled its next meeting for Oct. 27. It plans to begin reviewing prospects at that time.