An important aspect of the initial phase of the search for the 26th president of the University of Vermont involves gathering feedback from members of the University Community about the opportunities and challenges facing the University of Vermont as well as the personal and leadership characteristics desired of the next president.  The information gathered through this process will assist the Presidential Search Committee in developing an institutional case statement as well as search criteria.
 
Recently, I requested that each of the University governance groups and the Presidential Commissions prepare a document of 5-10 pages to be shared with the Presidential Search Committee as we begin our work toward eventually identifying potential candidates. I asked that the document address the following five questions:  

1. What opportunities do you see facing the University of Vermont in the next ten years?  
2. What challenges do you see facing the University of Vermont in the next ten years?  
3. What professional qualifications/experiences should the next president possess?  
4. What personal leadership characteristics should the next president possess?  
5. What other considerations should the Presidential Search Committee bear in mind as we initiate the process?

We have created an on-line survey using these same questions that is available to all members of the University community wishing to provide perspectives on the next President of the University of Vermont at Invitation to Comment. I have also invited alumni, parents, and friends of the University to participate in the same on-line survey. I encourage you to share your thoughts and ideas as we move ahead with this important effort.  Further, information and regular updates on the status of the search will be available at the Presidential Search website.
 
Thank you in advance for your participation as we begin the important process of seeking and identifying UVM’s next president.