Kent State University President Beverly Warren announced in a university-wide email this morning that a search committee has been formed to find a new Vice President for the Division of Institutional Advancement.

Joel Nielsen, director of athletics, was selected to lead the committee that will “perform its duties with a commitment to integrity, inclusion, openness and transparency,” according to Warren’s email.

Serving with Nielsen on the committee are:

• Gary Brahler, Chair, Kent State University Foundation Board of Directors; First Vice President-Investments, Polcar Brahler Heil Belden Wealth Management Group of WellsFargo Advisors
• John Crawford, Dean, College of the Arts; Professor of Dance
• Cynthia Crimmins, Associate Vice President, Advancement Operations, Division of Institutional Advancement
• Rozell Duncan, Faculty Representative, Alumni Association National Board of Directors; Assistant Professor of Communication Studies
• Maria Schneider, President, Alumni Association National Board of Directors; Alumni Board Representative, Kent State University Foundation Board of Directors; Managing Consultant-Premier Segment, Institutional Relationships, TIAA-CREF

Gene Finn, former vice president of institutional advancement, left Kent State on July 31 for a position in fundraising at Columbia University. Steve Sokany is serving as the interim vice president and will remain in the role until a new vice president is appointed. 

Warren also said the university is looking for “an outstanding leader, communicator and motivator,” and encouraged the entire university to give insight about what kind of person should fill the position.

Members of the Kent State community can complete a survey about what they are looking for in the new Vice President. http://www.kent.edu/advancement-search/survey.