Search committee defines desired presidential traits, outlines next steps

The Louisville Cardinal By Shelby Brown–The U of L presidential search committee wants the next president to be a strong leader and team player, as discussed in their March 15 meeting.“You need someone who is very independent and not motivated by money,” committee member Nitin Sahney said. “Someone who can make tough decisions, without worrying who to please in this community.”Charles Denny called leadership the “x factor” in the presidential search.“If we think in terms of momentum, this is a critical time,” Denny said. “This is the most important decision that must be made.”James Rogers and John Schnatter want a candidate who is apolitical. Members also stressed the importance of transparency and problem-solving skills.Chair of the Staff Senate, Will Armstrong said he wants a president who is “truly” transformational and transparent.“We don’t have to like what’s going on,” he said. “We have to understand why.”CEO of Republic Bank, Steve Trager advocated for a problem-solving president.“(We need) somebody that can inspire a diverse group of constituents to follow them, somebody that is a problem identifier and a problem solver.”Trager also said the University should do “whatever it takes to get the best person,” and they should be paid “above the market.”Sandra Frazier, who cited her family’s long-time contributions, raised monetary concerns as well.“We need a president who will be an outstanding fundraiser. They need to mend fences and build partnerships.”Co-chairs David Grissom and Schnatter outlined the steps they will take in the coming months. Those include selecting a national search firm and crafting a leadership statement. The leadership statement will serve as a job description, encompassing all the traits expressed at the meeting.The leadership statement will be crafted through a listening tour across the university.Professor Enid Trucios-Haynes raised concerns about selecting the national search firm and conducting ...


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