The presidential search committee has chosen three finalists to become the future president of The University of Memphis. The three candidates are scheduled to be interviewed on campus, however a date has not been set.
The finalists are Shirley C. Raines, Richard D. Ringeisen and Roger Bowen.
Dr. Maurice Mendel, audiology and speech language pathology and search advisory committee member, said a date for the on campus interviews may
take place in January.
"At present I don't know when those interviews will occur," Mendel said. "It's likely the interviews will be in January after the students and faculty get back (from break)."
Within the pool of candidates, TBR and the search committee look for certain credentials as such as: exhibiting determination to assisting students with their needs, an understanding of The U of M and its involvement with other schools, an earned doctorate from an recognized educational institution and a minimum of five years of favorable campus administrative experience.
Shirley C. Raines, University of Kentucky vice chancellor for academic service, is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with an Ed.D earned in 1979 and a M.S. in 1972.
Raines said in her cover letter to Chancellor Charles Manning that she is looking forward to the opportunities that exist here on campus if she is chosen.
"The opportunities for The University of Memphis are immense with its location, population and collaborations with schools and the community, businesses and corporations, and other higher education institutions in the area," Raines said.
Roger Bowen, State University of New York at New Paltz president and professor of Political Science, is a graduate of University of British Colombia with a earned Ph.D. in 1977 and an Master's from the University of Michigan.
Richard D. Ringeisen, East Carolina University vice chancellor for academic affairs, is a graduate of Manchester College in Indiana with a Masters in 1968 and a Doctoral from Michigan State University in 1968.
Ringeisen said he is honored to be considered for the position of president.
"Knowing some people at The University of Memphis and having visited the institution on occasion, I am indeed complimented to be nominated for this important position," Ringeisen said in his cover letter. "It is very attractive to me."
Those who think the three finalist signal an end of the search for president should uncross their fingers. According to Mendel the search could be extended . . . again.
"Of the limited pool, I feel good about the candidates selected, of the total pool, I'm not sure I'm comfortable," Mendel said. "The search firm has indicated that there may be additional candidates brought forward."
