Search launched for permanent provost; feedback sought

The University of Oregon is preparing to launch a national search for its permanent provost and senior vice president this fall.

The president has named a search committee comprised of 19 university community members, primarily faculty members, but also including vice presidents, deans, students and staff. Leslie Leve, Lorry Lokey Chair and professor in the College of Education, will chair the search.

As part of the process, the search committee is seeking input from the campus community about the key characteristics, qualities and experiences they would value in the university's next permanent chief academic officer. University community members can provide input at a listening session or by completing an input survey.

The feedback will help develop the leadership profile that will be used in the search process. Parker Executive Search is assisting with the search and will hold listening sessions with members of the UO faculty and staff in November.

“The search committee wants to hear from the university community about the search for this important role,” Leve said. “In the coming weeks, the committee will share additional information with campus, including the position description, once final. We encourage you to share your nominations and ideas with us now. Please nominate those whom you believe would be strong candidates, whether or not you believe they are open to considering a new opportunity.”

The listening session for faculty and staff will be held Wednesday, Nov. 1, at 3:30 p.m. The session will be held via Zoom to facilitate broad participation, via this Zoom link. Recommendation and nomination may be submitted using this nomination form.

Individuals who cannot attend their session or who also wish to provide written input to the search firm and search committee may do so by submitting this survey form by Nov. 9.

Interim Provost Janet Woodruff-Borden has led the academic portfolio since August 2022. President Karl Scholz recognized her commitment and dedication in his fall welcome message as he announced the search, adding, "I am grateful for her leadership, counsel, and wisdom as she continues to advance our academic enterprise."

More information about the search can be found on the president’s website.