Committee selection for the nationwide search of Southern Arkansas University’s next president has been completed. SAU Board of Trustees member and chair of the 2024 SAU presidential search committee, Monty Harrington, announces the selection of the following representatives for the presidential search committee:
- Monty Harrington, Chair of Search Committee
- Donna Allen, Vice President for Student Affairs
- Shawana Reed, Vice President for Finance
- Jennifer Rowsam, Dean, Dempsey College of Liberal and Performing Arts
- Robin Sronce, Dean, Rankin College of Business
- Abraham Tucker, SAU Faculty Senate President
- Margarita Norment, SAU Staff Senate President
- Mahbub Ahmed, Associate Professor, Chair of Engineering & Physics Department
- Dr. Neelie Dobbins, Professor of Education, Chair of Teacher Education Department
- Sarah Jennings, Associate Vice President for Enrollment Services
- Cledis Stuart, Associate Dean of Multiculturalism and Diversity
- Steve Browning, Director of Athletics
- Bailey Cole, Student Government Association President
- Valarie Wilson, SAU Tech Vice Chancellor for Academics/CAO
- Jennifer Pearce, Chair of Foundation Board
- Ledly Jennings, Chair of Alumni Association Board
The committee, comprised of leaders from the SAU system and supporting boards, will play a pivotal role in the national search for the next president of SAU. The decision to form the presidential search committee underscores SAU’s commitment to ensuring a thorough and inclusive search process to identify a visionary leader capable of guiding the University into its next chapter of growth and success.
The presidential search committee will work closely with Roger Giles, vice president for administration and general counsel. Mr. Giles was named the contact person for the application process by the Board of Trustees. Under Giles’ guidance and with assistance from the SAU university communications and marketing, the search committee will solicit nominations, review applications, and conduct interviews with potential candidates. Input from various stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members, will be sought throughout the process to ensure a comprehensive search is conducted.
As the search process progresses, updates and announcements will be shared with the SAU community and public to ensure transparency and inclusivity. The University encourages all stakeholders to stay engaged and participate in the search process by providing feedback and support.
Once the search process is completed, the committee will make a recommendation of the finalists to the Board of Trustees, which will make the final hiring decision.
About Southern Arkansas University:
Southern Arkansas University is a comprehensive regional public university located in Magnolia, Arkansas. Established in 1909, SAU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines including business, education, science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and the arts. With a commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service, SAU provides students with transformative educational experiences that prepare them for success in a diverse and rapidly changing world.
