NKU Announces Framework For Presidential Search

“Each member of the presidential search leadership team brings with them a unique perspective and diverse viewpoint, which will prove valuable for NKU and its next leader. The team is honored to serve in this capacity for NKU and is looking forward to beginning the next stage of the search process – conducting listening sessions and forums in order to build out the presidential profile. The internal and external stakeholders’ commitment to providing perspectives will be vital to our process and each person’s collective passion for the continued success of NKU,” expressed Kara Williams, Secretary of the NKU Board of Regents and Chair of the Presidential Search Committee

The primary charge to the leadership team is to provide the Board of Regents with information that will assist the Board in selecting the university’s next president. Specifically, the team will:

• Conduct a national search to generate a strong pool of candidates for the presidency of NKU.
• Use virtual and in-person forums to solicit from various constituent groups their perspectives about the leadership needs of NKU.
• Reduce the pool of applicants to a reasonable number of semi-finalists.
• Gather additional information about each semi-finalist (e.g., interview data, reference checks, etc.). 
• Host local visits for finalists (if desired by the candidates).
• Ensure that all semi-finalists and finalists receive accurate and thorough information about NKU.
• Work closely with the search firm and advisory groups to assist NKU’s presidential search.
• Carry out all responsibilities in the best interests of the university, regardless of the constituent group with which one most strongly identifies.
• Submit to the Board of Regents a list of exceptional candidates who warrant the Board’s consideration to serve as NKU’s next president.

“The selection of the next president will be a critical decision for the Board of Regents, I am confident that the search leadership team will oversee a process that brings forth the strongest candidates excited to lead this university. I know that the team will do so with the highest degree of care and responsibility, consistent with shared governance, and the best traditions of this institution,” shared Rich Boehne, chair of the NKU Board of Regents.

WittKieffer, the global executive search and leadership advisory firm, will conduct the national search of interested candidates. Once the Board of Regents approved the search process today, the presidential search site was launched, which includes robust information about NKU, the region, and students, faculty and staff. As the leadership team commences, the next phase of the search process will include building the presidential profile and post the position.