Characteristics and Qualities for  Marshall University President

 DRAFT

Marshall University is seeking a new president who will lead the institution in forging a shared vision of tomorrow.  A clear and realistic vision that incorporates both the institution’s historic commitment to high quality undergraduate and graduate education and the university’s significant investment in biotechnology and applied research.

             The next president of Marshall University must possess personal and professional integrity and high energy, preferably should hold an earned doctorate and, in addition, demonstrate the following attributes:

             Academic Leader committed to academic quality with a clear knowledge of the organization and operation of higher education in the environment of a public state assisted institution.  Demonstrating in experience standards commensurate with the mission of Marshall University and in articulating the academic needs of the institution to diverse and dedicated constituencies.  An individual who enjoys leadership opportunities and responsibilities and who possesses the capacity to involve and inspire people.  

             Manager demonstrating academic experience at a high level in an institution at least equal in complexity and scope as Marshall University.  Sufficiently informed in key administrative areas, particularly budget and admissions/retention.  A highly visible commitment to encouraging diversity in all areas of the academic community and an equally visible endorsement of collegiality in the governance of all aspects of the university.

             Evaluator/Planner demonstrating by prior experience the personal and professional skills requisite for strategic planning.  Able to discriminate between areas where future growth should be encouraged and those which require increased stability.  Able to balance a statewide educational mission with local and regional service needs.  Maintain a balanced view of the University, emphasizing academics but including student affairs, athletics, planning and advancement.

             Community Developer committed to the development of strong internal and external communities.  Willing to embrace the lifestyle of the University’s region and build bridges between internal and external communities.  Demonstrate that community involvement played an integral part in past experiences and an appreciation of nearly 80,000 alumni of Marshall University as a special element among its constituents.  Lead the University in even greater involvement of the alumni with its future.

              Resource Acquirer demonstrating knowledge of and, preferably, substantial prior experience in fund-raising and resource acquisition.  Adept at creating and presenting the University’s budgetary program to the civic leadership of the state of West Virginia, communicating the achievements and needs of the institution in a clear, effective and forthright manner and developing a larger base of donors, including alumni.  Able to provide leadership and direction in resource development and consider it an area requiring a high degree of personal involvement.