 Thomas L. Keon speaks during the provost search Thursday. Photo by Casey Gahagan | The Appalachian M. Dwayne Smith is currently the senior vice provost at the University of South Florida and has an academic background in psychology, sociology and criminology.
While on campus, he spoke about the financial concerns facing higher education, but also of the opportunities that still exist for development.
“There is probably, at least in the contemporary history of higher education, never been a more compelling case for cost controls, strategic investments and seeking new sources of revenue,” Smith said. “We will have a new model of how public education is funded and one of the most significant challenges we face is how we will manage that.”
Thomas L. Keon, who serves as dean of the College of Business Administration at the University of Central Florida, spoke on the importance of a well-rounded education, diversity and life-long learning.
Keon said the university “should be an environment that engages individuals,” creating a “base of individuals who want to come back.”
The Provost Search Committee is charged with selecting two or more candidates to fill the positions of provost and executive vice chancellor, the second–highest ranked administrator on campus.
The search committee will recommend candidates they feel are completely qualified for the position, Randy K. Edwards, Walker College of Business dean and search committee chair said.
“When the committee recommends two or possibly three names, we have to understand that any of those persons could be chosen by the chancellor,” Edwards said.
The provost is responsible for everything involving academics at Appalachian. He or she will oversee the deans, maintain the university’s accreditations, budget and plan for academic affairs.
The committee expects to offer its recommendations to Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock by the end of April.
Those who wish to learn more about the search or submit feedback are encouraged to visit provostsearch.appstate.edu.
Story: JUSTIN HERBERGER, News Reporter
Story: JULIANNE OLSON, Intern News Reporter
Photo: CASEY GAHAGAN, Photographer |
