MORGANTOWN — West Virginia University Board of Governors Vice-Chair and Presidential Search Committee Chair Dr. Patrice Harris sent the following letter to members of the University community, providing an update on the presidential search process.

Dear West Virginia University Community,

Over the last month we have continued to make good progress in the presidential search process. As we prepare to select the next president of West Virginia University, I would like to share the latest updates.

Today, we are launching a survey to aid us in learning more about the qualities you would like to see in the next president, as well as the aspirations you have for the University. This four-question survey is your opportunity to engage in the presidential search process. Your thoughtful responses will help frame the Leadership Profile and provide critical guidance to the Presidential Search Committee as candidates are considered. You can access the survey at the presidential search website found at presidentialsearch.wvu.edu.

Earlier this month, we held the first meeting of the Presidential Search Committee. During our time together, we reviewed the committee’s charge, discussed the importance of confidentiality and outlined the various phases of the search process. We also discussed the importance of hearing from all our constituents and the plan for listening sessions. It was a lively and engaged discussion, and I want to thank the members of the Search Committee for their time and willingness to serve the University in this role. It was evident that each member believes in the mission of West Virginia University and cares very deeply about the future of the institution.

We also held our first Listening Session with the Faculty Senate Leadership. Conducted by our partners from WittKieffer, the session explored thoughts on the pride points of the University, the opportunities we have before us, as well as the qualities faculty would like to see in our new president. I, along with other members from the Presidential Search Committee, attended. The discussion was honest, candid and forward-thinking. The passion and purpose that each person brought to the discussion affirms how deeply people are committed to West Virginia University.

We continue to plan for additional Listening Sessions to be held in late August and in September soon after the fall semester begins. There will be multiple opportunities for faculty, staff, students and alumni to participate. When the schedule is finalized, we will share through our communication channels as well as post to the presidential search website. I encourage everyone to attend a session that works for your schedule. We look forward to hearing your insights.

And as always, if you have questions about the process, be sure to visit the Presidential Search website, presidentialsearch.wvu.edu, where you can find the timeline and additional information. Please watch MOUNTAINEER E-News, Unews and the Alumni Newsletter for updates on the Listening Sessions in the coming weeks. And, if at any time you have concerns or questions, please email us at WVUPresident@wittkieffer.com.

The process of selecting our next president is a monumental task. I strongly encourage Mountaineer Nation to be a part of the process. Your contributions are valued and will be instrumental as we move forward. Together we continue to build toward West Virginia University’s bright future.

Sincerely,
Dr. Patrice Harris
Chair, Presidential Search Committee
Vice-Chair, WVU Board of Governors