Dean of students search to pause to maximize student input

In order to maximize student input and participation in the selection of a new dean of students, the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s search process will continue into the fall semester.

A search and screen committee chaired by David Nelson, professor of biochemistry and director of the Center for Biology Education, and student Katrina Flores has been reviewing applications since March 17.

However, it now appears unlikely that the campus visits and extensive meetings required of finalists could be scheduled before students depart Madison at the end of finals in early May, according to Provost Patrick Farrell.

With that in mind, the preliminary interview process, announcement of finalists and campus visits will pause and resume once students return to campus in late August.

“Students on the search and screen committee feel very strongly, and Chancellor Wiley and I agree, that student involvement in the final stage of the interview process is critical,” Farrell says. “We simply cannot conduct final interviews and choose a chief student affairs officer without students on campus.”

Farrell says the current applicant pool reflects strong quality. All candidates who have applied will be considered when the process resumes. In the interim, the committee will continue to accept applications in an effort to maximize the pool of candidates.

Lori Berquam will continue to serve as interim dean of students until a final selection is made.

“I want to acknowledge the hard work of Lori and the staff of the Offices of the Dean of Students during this interim period,” he says. “We plan to move quickly when the process resumes later this year.”

A Web site has been launched to provide information for candidates.

The new dean will succeed Luoluo Hong, who left the office in 2005 to take a position at Arizona State University.