Fresno State begins search for new provost

By Laban Pelz

Fresno State is searching for a new provost, and interviews with applicants will wrap up mid February.

Five candidates have been chosen to interview for the position out of the original applicant pool.

The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will be in charge of operating the university’s academic affairs, directing resources and personnel and providing leadership.

The applicant pool includes:

• Dr. Sona Andrews, Vice Provost of Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee

• Dr. Sandra Flake, Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Northern Colorado

• Dr. Gary Pivo, Dean of Graduate College at The University of Arizona

• Dr. Jeri Echeverria, Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs ad interim at Fresno State

• Dr. Donald Zingale, Dean, College of Health & Human Services at San Francisco State University

“ Whoever is provost retains the position until he or she leaves, as long as they perform well,” said criminology professor Arthur Wint, who is chairing the selection committee.

The 10-member committee consisting of members of student affairs, administration, the Academic Senate and the Associated Students, has the task of endorsing a candidate, who will then be approved by University President John Welty.

“ This is a search committee, not decision committee. The group will make a recommendation to the president, who then decides,” Wint said.

Neil Gibson, Fresno State AS president said he is looking for a candidate who is focused on students.

“ People say that a provost should deal with academics. Well, students are academics,” Gibson said. “I want someone who is going to be a good fit for Fresno State, for this climate, and will be a part of the solution.”

“ We are looking for individuals who have gone through the academic ladder: department chair, dean, vice provost or assistant to the provost,” Professor Wint said.

All five candidates have had varying experiences in positions at other universities or at Fresno State.

Fresno State’s previous provost became president at Cal Poly Pomona. Since July 1, 2003, Dr. Echeverria has served as interim provost.