The search for a new University president continues and will include both religious and lay candidates, an email from the Board of Trustees sent to the St. John’s community last week confirmed.
Interim President Joseph L. Levesque, C.M. assumed the position following the departure of former President Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M. last summer. Levesque told the Torch earlier this year that he plans on holding the post for one year during the search process.
“Its members represent the many constituents of the University community—board members, faculty, alumni, administrators and students,” the Board said.
According to the email, the Presidential Search Committee is made up of thirteen members including: Peter D’Angelo, chair on the Board of Trustees, Rev. Michael J. Carroll, C.M., vice chair of the Board of Trustees, Rev. Joseph Levesque, C.M., interim president of St. John’s University and Elizabeth Sheehan, president of Student Government Inc.
In addition, the email said that the Board of Trustees has retained council to assist with this process. R. William Funk & Associates, a leading higher education consulting firm, will help conduct the search. According to the Board, Funk has helped recruit presidents and chancellors for institutions such as Cornell, Georgia Tech, Rutgers, the University of Miami, the University of San Diego, the University of Southern California and the University of Virginia.
The email also asked the University community share its feedback with the search committee.
“We will gather input from faculty, students, employees and alumni on the characteristics that are essential for our next President,” the Board said. “We welcome your suggestions as we search for the very best candidates to assume this vital leadership role.“
The email said the committee is looking for a candidate who embodies the University mission.
“Most importantly, as stewards of St. Vincent de Paul, we remain true to our mission: respecting each human individual, serving those in need and promoting social justice,” the email said.
A University spokeswoman declined The Torch’s interview request with the two chairs of the search committee.
