E. Gordon Gee President at West Virginia University | Facebook Website
E. Gordon Gee President at West Virginia University | Facebook Website
West Virginia University Board of Governors Vice-Chair and Presidential Search Committee Chair Dr. Patrice Harris provided an update on the ongoing presidential search process in a letter to the university community.
Dr. Harris outlined that 34 listening sessions were held across WVU’s campuses in Morgantown, Beckley, Keyser, and Charleston. These sessions included faculty, staff, students, alumni, and other stakeholders. Community members, city officials, and alumni also participated in dedicated sessions in each city. Several virtual sessions were conducted for those unable to attend in person.
Participants shared their feedback during 75-minute discussions guided by three questions focusing on WVU's uniqueness, necessary skillsets for the new president, and future opportunities for the university.
Feedback was also collected from alumni nationwide through six virtual sessions hosted by the WVU Alumni Association. Additionally, insights were gathered from the WVU Alumni Association Board of Directors and the WVU Foundation Board of Directors.
On September 9th, Dr. Harris updated the Faculty Senate on the search process during its monthly meeting. She discussed the search timeline and early survey results while answering questions from Faculty Senate members.
An online survey launched on July 24th remained open for seven weeks until September 13th. A total of 1,181 members of the WVU community responded to this survey.
Dr. Harris noted that early survey results highlighted key themes: understanding WVU's commitment to its land-grant mission, recognizing its vital role in the state, and leading in alignment with WVU’s values.
She expressed gratitude to everyone who participated in listening sessions or completed the online survey. Dr. Harris emphasized a shared commitment to attracting top candidates for the position.
The next steps involve incorporating feedback into a leadership profile which will be made public on the Presidential Search website once approved. The recruitment of candidates will then begin with assistance from WittKieffer.
Updates will be available through various channels including WVUToday, MOUNTAINEER E-News, Unews, and the Alumni Newsletter as well as periodically visiting presidentialsearch.wvu.edu for more information or concerns about candidate nominations via email at WVUPresident@wittkieffer.com.
Sincerely,
Dr. Patrice Harris
Chair, Presidential Search Committee
Vice-Chair, WVU Board of Governors
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