The search for West Virginia University President E. Gordon Gee’s successor is officially underway. The committee tasked with finding the university’s next president has released a 52-page leadership profile highlighting the position and what the university is looking for in its 27th president.

Consider the list of attributes included in the profile:

“A deep and abiding commitment to student success. »

“A history of transparent decision-making that inspires confidence…and reflects on-the-ground experience.” »

“Commitment to WVU values ​​with emphasis on academic freedom and cultivating a welcoming environment.”

“Deep appreciation for the state of West Virginia, Appalachia and WVU’s unique role within the state; real and active interest in becoming a member of the WVU community.

“Empathy, integrity, transparency, curiosity, flexibility and willingness to listen deeply and respond to community concerns. »

“Political savvy, with an ability to work across the ideological spectrum, both at the state and federal level. »

“An understanding of the contemporary world of collegiate athletics.”

This is a detailed list from the search committee. WVU’s next leader must be dynamic and also help rebuild the university’s stature. The academic transformation undertaken last year, although necessary, still has an impact on the university’s reputation.

The next president and leadership team will have a lot of work to do in this area.

“We hope to find a strong, passionate leader willing to embrace our mountaineer spirit and demonstrate unwavering dedication to fulfilling our land-grant mission of bringing education, health care and prosperity that are changing the lives of all West Virginians.” » reads in the leadership profile.

The new president is expected to be announced in the spring. The search committee has a lot of work to do to meet candidates and find the best possible finalists. One concern of the WVU Faculty Senate that we would echo is: making the process as public and transparent as possible. We understand that confidentiality must be part of any executive search process, but WVU’s president holds one of the most important and powerful positions in the state. Keeping the names of the finalists secret — at a time, again, when the administration’s credibility is in question — only adds fuel to the fire.

“We believe an open process would build morale and trust. » said Diana Davis, chair of the WVU Faculty Senate. “…After (the) academic transformation, it is difficult to entrust our future to others.”

Let us hope that the Faculty Senate’s concerns, while justified, do not lead to distrust of the new president. It would also be detrimental to the future of the university.