I’m pleased to announce that we have begun the search for a vice president for student affairs, and I’m seeking your help as we work to identify the very best candidates.

I have asked John Hall, vice president for administration and campus operations, to lead the search, and a Search Advisory Committee has been formed. We have engaged Russell Reynolds Associates, a respected national executive search firm, to help manage the process.

More information about the search can be found on our new Senior Leadership Searches website, including a position description and advertisement. I encourage you to contact either John Hall at jhall@uta.edu or the search firm at UTAStudentAffairs@Russellreynolds.com if you are aware of individuals you think would be a good match for the position.

While my desire is to make this an expeditious search, my primary goal is to ensure that we attract a strong slate of candidates for consideration—and ultimately an outstanding leader in the field. UTA is known for its student-centered ethos, and finding the right individual for this position will be crucial in our drive to become the 21st-century urban university and set standards for others to follow.

I would like to extend my thanks to John and the search committee for their commitment to this important endeavor. And I thank you in advance for your ideas and assistance in nominating the best-possible individuals from around the nation.