Presidential Search Committee nearing completion of listening sessions, launches online survey

The Presidential Search Committee at Lenoir-Rhyne is wrapping up its series of in-person listening sessions and has now launched an online survey to gather additional input from the LRU community.

The committee, tasked with identifying the university's 13th president, held open forums, focus groups, and one-on-one meetings over the last month to solicit feedback on the institution's priorities, challenges, and aspirations.

Sessions were held at the Asheville, Columbia and Hickory campuses and all faculty, staff and students were invited. In addition, key groups like the Board of Trustees, Alumni Board, Board of Visitors and LTSS Advisory Council, Bears Club Executive Board and community partners also were invited to sessions. More than 200 people participated in these sessions so far. 

"We are grateful for the overwhelming participation and thoughtful input we have received during the listening sessions," said Madeleine Dassow, chair of the board of trustees and of the search committee. "The insights shared by our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members will be invaluable as we move forward in our search for a new president who can lead Lenoir-Rhyne to continued success."

The search committee has now launched an online survey, available to all members of the LR community. This survey will offer an opportunity to share ideas and priorities for the university’s next leader. The survey asks the same questions as the input sessions. Complete the survey.

The Presidential Search Committee will analyze the feedback gathered during the listening sessions and from the online survey to develop a detailed profile outlining the desired qualifications and experiences for the next president. This profile will serve as a guide for the search firm, Coleman Lew Canny Bowen, as they recruit potential candidates.

The Presidential Search Committee is expected to begin reviewing candidate applications this fall. The aim is to present a recommendation to the Board of Trustees in early 2025. 

Lenoir-Rhyne is committed to a transparent and inclusive search process, and the committee will continue to provide updates to the campus community as the search progresses.

Visit the Presidential Search website for more information about the search.