College Launches Search for Top Academic Officer

Pennsylvania College of Technology has begun a nationwide search for a new vice president for academic affairs and provost − the chief academic officer at the institution.

Veronica M. Muzic, who holds the position, is retiring after 37 years of service as an administrator and faculty member at Penn College and its immediate predecessor, Williamsport Area Community College. She will remain on staff through 2006.

College President Davie Jane Gilmour has appointed a search committee. Co-chairs for the committee are Tom F. Gregory, dean of construction and design technologies, and Elizabeth L. Meyer, associate professor of human services/social science and co-department head of humanities/social sciences. A packet with information about the position, the college and the Williamsport area has been sent to 5,000 targeted recipients nationwide.

The process of reviewing applications is expected to begin Nov. 15 and continue until the position is filled. After telephone interviews are conducted, finalists will be brought in for on-campus interviews in February. A second round of interviews with final candidates is expected to take place in April. Candidates will spend multiple days on campus, allowing employees and students the opportunity to meet with them if they wish.

The vice president for academic affairs and provost at Penn College provides leadership and oversight in matters relating to curriculum, instruction, academic policy, business and industry partnerships, and outcomes assessment, as well as functioning as the president's designee when necessary.

As chief academic officer, the vice president for academic affairs and provost is a member of President's Council and participates in planning and policy decisions; defines parameters for budget development; establishes priorities for major equipment purchases, grant initiatives and facility renovations; and consults on the hiring of faculty, among other key responsibilities.

The vice president for academic affairs and provost is assisted by two associate vice presidents who focus on specific academic matters and areas such as distance education, professional development, academic probation and honors programs.

The college has eight academic schools and employs 293 full-time faculty members, as well as adjunct faculty as needed.

For more information about the position and the ongoing search, visit online .