The search for a full time provost is almost complete.
All three candidates have spoken to faculty at separate open sessions held during the last seven days.
The meetings were advertised in emails as a chance for students and staff to get to know the finalists who want to take the most important academic positions at the University of Memphis.
While many students have not heard of Michael J. O'Brien, the dean for College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Missouri, or Wayne M. Raskind, the dean for College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Wayne State University, both of whom have applied for the position, interim Provost Karen Weddle-West, who has worked at the University since the early 90’s, did not have that problem.
During the 30 minute meeting, Weddle-West answered the 11 chairs’ questions with a smile, responding to each professor by name often complementing the research they had done.
Some at the meeting seemed positive that Weddle-West would secure the position. After that meeting, Weddle-West went straight to the open session meeting.
The three meetings were made into videos and can be watched on the U of M’s website (at http://www.memphis.edu/provostsearch/finalists.htm). Students and faculty can voice their opinion about the candidates by filling out evaluation forms at the website.
