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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link=blue vlink=purple><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal>We will in just a few days, be posting the “Notice of Vacancy” for the Associate Provost-VPAA position in the Office of Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs currently being filled by Dr. Dan Edelman on an interim basis. <span style='color:#17365D'> </span>Dr. Edelman’s interim appointment expires in May. <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>The search is deliberately an internal, campus search, and all interested parties are strongly encouraged to submit an application. Following serious consideration of an external search, it was concluded the best interests of the University would be served by avoiding the increased budget impact of adding another full time administrative position to the budget (the practical outcome of an external hire), and more importantly, avoiding the possibility this spring of welcoming two incumbents (provost and associate) each equally unfamiliar with the University. Confidant we have any number of outstanding professionals on campus who meet or exceed the qualifications for the position (See Attachment), we invite all who are interested to submit their applications by the 30 day deadline that will appear in the official posting, which we trust will provide those interested ample time for considering the matter.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Having the privilege of serving several universities as provost, it is difficult to exaggerate the importance of the associate provost position. Moreover, few academic administrative positions in my opinion are broader in scope or more demanding of multiple talents, skills and abilities. A review of the attached position description perhaps reveals that even more clearly. Nonetheless, I am persuaded we have any number of outstanding prospects for the position in the University’s employ and look forward to working with the search committee to give all who apply, careful and thorough consideration.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Further questions are welcome.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Gary G. Peer, Ed.D.<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal>Interim Provost/VPAA <o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p></div></body></html>