Western Carolina University

Three candidates for the position of vice chancellor for student affairs at Western Carolina University will visit campus in April and May for interviews, including an open forum and reception for each candidate.

During the forums, each candidate will give a public presentation on the topic “Student Affairs as a Partner in Creating the Engaged Campus,” followed by a question-and-answer session and a reception.

Western is conducting a national search to fill a vacancy being created by the retirement this summer of Robert Caruso, vice chancellor for student affairs at WCU since 1998.

“We are searching for a campus leader who can continue Western’s tradition of vibrant student affairs activities, who values strong cooperation between academic and student life programs, and who will expand our efforts to develop students who are engaged in their campus and their world,” said Provost Kyle Carter, who is chairing the search committee. “We are looking for someone who can build upon the solid foundation created by Dr. Caruso, and he is leaving some mighty big shoes to fill.”

The candidates and open forum schedules are

Kathleen E. Simons, formerly dean of students at National-Louis University in Chicago; Friday, April 20; open forum, 9:15-10:15 a.m.; reception, 10:15-11 a.m., hospitality room of the Ramsey Regional Activity Center.

H. Samuel Miller Jr., associate vice president for student affairs at the University of Connecticut; Tuesday, April 24; open forum, 9:15-10:15 a.m.; reception, 10:15-11 a.m., hospitality room of the Ramsey Regional Activity Center.

Sarah E. Shumate, formerly vice president for student services at St. Thomas University in Miami; Friday, May 4; open forum, 9:15-10:15 a.m.; reception, 10:15-11 a.m., Multipurpose Room A of A.K. Hinds University Center.

The vice chancellor for student affairs provides leadership, coordination and support for all programs and personnel in the Division of Student Affairs, including Residential Living, Student Community Ethics, Ramsey Center and University Events, Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Health Center, Intramurals, Fitness Center, Educational Talent Search, Upward Bound-Math/Science, Service Learning, Multicultural Affairs and Center, Women’s Programs and Center, and Kneedler Child Development Center. The vice chancellor also administers staff and programs of the A.K. Hinds University Center and a new student recreation center, currently under construction.

For more information, contact the WCU Office of the Provost at (828) 227-7495.