Board of Regents opens application period for interim U of M president

The University of Minnesota Board of Regents today opened a seven-day application period for internal and external candidates to express their interest in serving as the University’s interim president during the Board’s search for the next president.

“Based on what we have already heard from many members of the University community and beyond, we know exceptional and strong leaders exist who have a high level of energy and optimism about the entire University of Minnesota System. We hope those individuals apply, and together, I’m confident we will continue the University’s momentum in service to our students and the entire state,” said Board Chair Janie Mayeron.

In a collegial and thorough discussion last Thursday, the Board outlined the following priorities for the interim president:

• Maintain momentum on key initiatives, such as MPact 2025, the University’s systemwide strategic plan, and the PEAK initiative, a systemwide effort to ensure more efficient, compliant, and equitable delivery of services; among others;
• Build trust with the University community and work in close collaboration with the Board and the Minnesota Legislature;
• Serve as an effective communicator, building strong relationships with students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and other friends and partners of the University;
• Apply their unique expertise, insights, experiences, and ideas to the role, including identifying areas where data and objective assessment may enhance effectiveness; and
• Set the foundation and prepare the University for the next president.

Candidates for the systemwide role must submit confidential application materials electronically by 12 p.m. Central time on Monday, May 1 to [email protected]. The position description and other information are available at the interim search website.

The Board intends to discuss candidates and next steps during a special meeting expected the week of Monday, May 1. That meeting will be publicly noticed at least 72 hours beforehand.

The Board has determined that the ideal candidate will not intend to apply for the permanent president position so they may remain focused on the interim role. Candidates of any academic or non-academic background that meet position requirements are encouraged to apply. Candidates’ identities will remain confidential until the point at which the Board determines its list of finalist candidates, who will be interviewed by the Board at a public meeting.

It is anticipated that the person selected as the University’s interim president will begin work on July 1, 2023.

Huebsch, Kenyanya elected co-Vice Chairs

The Board also elected new co-Vice Chairs, selecting Regent Doug Huebsch and Regent Mike Kenyanya for these roles. Huebsch and Kenyanya will fill the position vacated by Regent Janie Mayeron, who assumed the office of Chair on April 17 following Regent Ken Powell’s resignation as Chair. Powell will remain on the Board until his term ends.

Huebsch and Kenyanya will serve out the remainder of the Vice Chair term, which runs through June 30. Consistent with Board policy, the Board will consider at its June annual meeting an election of officers – including a formal vote on the Chair and Vice Chair positions for the 2023-25 term, in addition to Secretary and Treasurer. For that meeting, a three-person Nominating Committee of the Board will prepare a slate of at least one candidate for each position in preparation for a full Board discussion and vote. 

Also during today's special meeting, the Board:

• Approved finalizing a lease agreement that will allow Governor Tim Walz and his family to temporarily live in Eastcliff following President Joan Gabel’s departure.
• Provided guidance on its expectations of President Gabel’s administration in the next two months, including on topics such as the University’s FY24 budget, pursuing MPact 2025 goals, senior leader searches, and engagement with Tribal communities.

For more information visit regents.umn.edu.