I am writing to share an update on the UNH presidential search.
The search committee recently concluded in-person interviews and was very impressed with the quality of candidates. The committee selected finalists to be interviewed by the University System of New Hampshire board of trustees, which has the ultimate responsibility for hiring the next UNH president.
As I wrote in my Jan. 30 update, the trustees and search committee decided this would be a confidential search. This means the candidates’ identities are being kept confidential throughout the search process, so there cannot be open campus forums. We believe this ensures the deepest and most diverse candidate pool. The reality is that fewer candidates are willing to jeopardize their standings in their current institutions by participating in a public search process. Confidential searches are now the standard for most high profile private and public universities. By respecting the confidentiality of the candidates, we have been able to attract candidates who would not otherwise participate. And having now seen our finalist pool, the search committee believes we made the right decision. The 29 listening sessions we conducted in Durham, Manchester and Concord were incredibly helpful and provided opportunities for faculty, staff, students, parents, UNH Foundation Board members and alumni to provide valuable input.
We look forward to a successful outcome that will ensure a strong future for UNH. If you have any questions about the search, please contact board liaison Tia Miller at tia.miller@usnh.edu or (603) 862-0918.
John Small
Chair, USNH Board of Trustees
Chair, UNH Presidential Search Committee
