Southern Arkansas University Board of Trustees met today to discuss personnel changes during the transition phase of the SAU presidential position.
After calling the meeting to order, board chair, Erica Woods, called the roll of board members, and all were present. She also thanked everyone for their work in ensuring a smooth transition during this time.
Board members then exited into executive session. Upon returning from the session, the board chair, Erica Woods reconvened the group. Nate Evers made a motion to appoint Dr. David F. Rankin as the interim president of SAU effective November 27, 2023, and will remain until the search for a permanent president is concluded. Monty Harrington seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Dr. David Rankin retired as president of SAU on June 30, 2015, and named President Emeritus. He served SAU for 46 years, and including 13 as president. He also served as the dean of College of Business and professor of finance and economics.
Dr. Rankin earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas, an M.B.A. from Louisiana Tech University, and a Ph.D. in finance from the University of Mississippi. Dr. Rankin also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Dr. Rankin’s extensive and substantial experience at SAU uniquely qualifies him to serve the campus and community while bringing a wealth of institutional knowledge, expertise, and leadership to this position.
SAU is committed to maintaining transparency throughout the process of interviewing and hiring the next university president. Updates to the SAU community and the public will be provided regarding the search progression under the leadership of Dr. Rankin.
