Atlanta — July 26, 2005

Board of Regents Chair J. Timothy Shelnut announced today that the board would take formal action on appointing an interim chancellor for the University System of Georgia at its regularly scheduled August board meeting, set for next week (August 2-3).

In addition, the board is considering a fast-tracked timeline for the national search for a new chancellor, one that would identify a new chancellor within a 90 to 120-day period, and have the individual prepared to assume the post no later than January 1. The chairman said that Baker-Parker, the selected executive search firm, has assured the board’s Executive Committee that they can meet the ambitious timeline.

The need to appoint an interim chancellor and the national search for a permanent chancellor were the two primary issues that dominated a special meeting of the Board of Regents today, conducted via conference call, primarily in Executive Session.

“Today was the first opportunity for the full Board of Regents to convene and discuss how we will address the vacancy we must fill in the chancellor’s office,” Chairman Shelnut stated. “The regents made this special meeting a very high priority, and we made a lot of progress with our deliberations in a very short period of time. I am looking forward to next week’s board meeting, and the formal actions we will take at that time.”

Shelnut and the Board of Regents’ Executive Committee have indicated their desire to have an interim chancellor work side-by-side with current chancellor Thomas Meredith prior to his departure, to facilitate a smooth and seamless transition.

“We intend to select an internal candidate for the interim position who is very familiar with the University System’s staff and campus leaders, as well as the inner workings of the Board of Regents,” Shelnut stated. “By tapping someone from within, this individual will be able not only to assist with the day-to-day responsibilities, but also readily provide leadership in this critical role.”

« News Releases