The Board of Trustees has released its profile for the George Washington University’s next president in a detailed document that encompasses the university’s history and mission, challenges and opportunities facing a new leader and the qualities a new president should possess.
The profile was developed after the Board of Trustees held more than two dozen town halls for students, faculty, staff and alumni in September and October.
“I greatly appreciate the feedback we received from a wide range of university community members,” said Nelson Carbonell, B.S. ’85, chair of the Board of Trustees. “The input has helped inform the profile we have developed for a transformational leader who can guide the university in its third century.”
The profile frames the presidential position in the context of the university’s history and priorities. It then outlines challenges and opportunities for the next president, including articulating and executing a distinct vision for the university; deepening the sense of community of the university and commitment to diversity and inclusion; and enhancing efforts to improve the student experience and student success.
The qualifications of the next president, according to the document, include proven, visionary leadership; academic distinction and intellectual leadership; exceptional leadership style; demonstrated management acumen; demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion; dedication to the student experience; and commitment to fundraising.
Members of the community still have the opportunity to provide their feedback and submit questions for the Search Committee to ask prospective candidates through the presidential search website. The board is expected to make its selection in spring 2017 with input from the search committee, Faculty Senate Executive Committee and Faculty Consultative Committee.
The Board of Trustees launched the presidential search process in June after President Steven Knapp announced he would not seek to renew his contract as president when it expires in summer 2017.
Trustee Madeleine Jacobs, B.S. ’68, D.Sc. (Honorary) ’03, serves as chair of the Presidential Search Committee, made up of trustees, faculty members, alumni and a student and staff member. National executive search firm Isaacson, Miller is assisting in the search.
For more information, visit the presidential search website.