The process to find the next University of Memphis president is one step closer to being complete, according to one member of the Tennessee Board of Regents.
"We don't have a set date yet, but there is definitely progress being made and we are getting excited," communications director Monica Greppin-Watts said.
On Feb. 3, the Search Advisory Committee met to start reviewing the applications of the prospect candidates. Though the exact number of applications turned in is unknown, only a select few of those who applied will be chosen to go on to the next step of the hiring process. The first round of interviews is set to begin Feb. 19.
The hiring process began in November when the Tennessee Board of Regents announced the search committee and scheduled their first meeting. Around the end of March, the last phase of the selection will be completed. The finalists will visit campus for a second round of interviews while participating in campus forums. A few forums will be streamed online.
"It is important to understand the search committee doesn't make the final decision," Greppin-Watts said. "The committees role is to solely find finalists."
After the finalists are selected, John Morgan, chancellor of the Tennessee Board of Regents, will recommend a finalist, and the board of regents will vote on his recommendation.
"I just want a president who has efficiency," Holly Hamby, a junior non-profit major said. "We need someone who is able to multitask and to fix problems when they arise."
The committee's ultimate goal is to select a president who will benefit the students of the university, and takes student opinions about the process seriously.
"Student opinions are crucial, and they will be able to have their own say in who they believe would be the best decision," Greppin-Watts said.
While the dates have not been set, students will be invited to open forums during the month of March to meet the finalists and give their opinions. There will also be an option online for students to share their thoughts.
"I'm really glad students will be able to express their opinions because it is going to be our president after all," Blake Meeks, political science major, said.
Meeks is looking forward to meeting the finalists and plans to have his voice heard.
"I want someone who will be open to new ideas and someone who can make smart minded decisions in a timely manner," he said. "Just a person who will be able to make good decisions based on populous of people.
