MEMORANDUM
June 27, 2007
| TO: | Campus Community |
| FROM: | Gary Abramson, Chairman, Board of Trustees |
| SUBJECT: | Presidential Search Update |
I provide this update for the American University community regarding the status of the presidential search. In my May 3 memo to the campus I suggested that the search would go into the summer months to provide additional time for review of the candidates by the search committee, the board, and university constituencies.
As part of this process the Board of Trustees met today (June 27) to receive a report from the search committee and review the status of the search. Based on today’s review and discussion, the board has asked to receive additional information and expects to reconvene in the near future for another review and possible closure. We will continue to observe appropriate protocols of candidate confidentiality to not jeopardize any candidate’s current position. I trust that the community understands this.
Our goal throughout this search has been to find the person best suited to lead American University into the future. That remains our priority. We are steadfast in that commitment, and we remain optimistic that our search will yield this person.
American University is thriving and strong in its academics, student applications, facilities, finances, fund raising, scholarly research, and any number of indicators of higher education quality. One year ago, the board and university approved a governance structure deemed to be a model for higher education. It is imperative to continue the momentum with a fitting and appropriate appointment.
On behalf of the board and the search committee, I appreciate the community’s continued patience as we strive toward closure in the search for the next president of American University.