TO: Grinnell College Community
FROM: Paul G. Risser ’61, Chair, Presidential Search Committee
DATE: December 17, 2009
SUBJECT: Presidential Search Update
Beginning fall 2009, the Presidential Search Committee, consisting of representatives from the faculty, staff, students, alumni and Board of Trustees, embarked on an ambitious schedule to identify exceptional candidates for the presidency of Grinnell. While staying on schedule throughout each phase of the search process, the Committee has engaged an impressive and diverse slate of candidates who hold prestigious positions at some of the country’s finest institutions.
The Search Committee will continue evaluation of the candidates toward meeting its charge of recommending up to four candidates to the Board of Trustees. Similar to many presidential searches at private colleges and universities today, public campus visits by the candidates are no longer common practice. In order to honor confidentiality and protect candidates in successful positions at their current institutions, the Committee will make its recommendation directly to the Trustees in a timely fashion. The thoughtful advice and numerous nominations submitted by the Grinnell community have been invaluable and important in the process. On behalf of the entire Search Committee, please accept our great appreciation for your confidence and support as we move toward this decision which is so important for the continued success of the College.
