UAF PROVOST SELECTION PROCESS ANNOUNCED

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 13, 1998

Fairbanks, Alaska — University of Alaska Fairbanks Chancellor Joan Wadlow will conduct an internal search for a replacement for Provost John P. Keating, who on March 6 was named Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Parkside.

Wadlow named UAF music professor Madeline Schatz, president-elect of the faculty senate, as chair of the small screening committee that will oversee the internal search. The group also includes Institute of Arctic Biology Director Robert White, a member of the Provost Council, which meets regularly with the provost to discuss research and academic issues; physics professor John Craven, chair of the Faculty Senate; conferences and special events administrative assistant Paula Long, president of the Staff Council, and Associated Students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks President Steve Nuss.

"The process will begin immediately and be completed in time for me to consult with the UA Board of Regents about the appointment, as required by policy," Wadlow said. The next meeting of the board is April 16 in Juneau.

"While there is great sadness at UAF about Provost Keating's departure, there is also a recognition of the need to take steps to find a successor. I believe that stability at UAF is critical at this time and that we need experienced leadership that is knowledgeable about UAF. I am looking to our own talent at UAF for the next Provost."

Wadlow went on to say, "Dr. Keating has been key to our efforts of focusing our resources while continuing our leadership role to meet the needs of Alaska and the nation. The research dollars we've attracted to the institution have increased significantly, with faculty writing more proposals that generate an average of four dollars for every state dollar," Wadlow said.

Before working at UAF, Keating was the vice provost and dean of branch campuses at the University of Washington. Prior to his arrival at UAF in 1994, Wadlow eliminated two positions - the vice chancellor for academic affairs and the vice chancellor for research and graduate studies - and consolidated the tasks under the provost.

Keating is expected to take over his new duties at UW-Parkside on July 1.

CONTACT: UAF Public Information Officer Debra Damron (907) 474-7122.

DPD/3-12-98/98-40