February 10, 1998

Regents Name Executive Search Firm; Kelly Will Appoint Evaluation Committee Representing Faculty, Staff, Students and Alumni

February 10, 1998   NR 4-1998

The Board of Regents of the University of Alaska has retained the executive search firm of Heidrick & Struggles, Inc., to assist them in the search for a new president of Alaska's university system.
The board's unanimous decision to retain the firm for a fee of approximately $75,000 came Friday after teleconference sessions with two firms. Heidrick & Struggles has offices in 50 cities around the world, and the university will be working with the San Francisco office. The other firm in contention was Korn/Ferry International.

Betty Hasler, a partner and member of the board of directors of Heidrick & Struggles, will direct the firm's efforts on behalf of the University of Alaska. The firm was established in 1953, and more than a decade ago established a specialty practice in higher education. "We believe we have conducted more searches in higher education than any other firm," Hasler told the regents.

Fairbanks Regent Mike Kelly, president of the board, told the regents Friday that he plans to appoint an evaluation committee composed of representatives of the faculty, staff, students, and alumni of the university to work with the board in reviewing and assessing candidate applications. He said the committee will work closely with the board which will serve as the presidential search committee.

The university's search for a new chief executive was prompted by the resignation in January of Dr. Jerome B. Komisar, who has been president of the university since 1990. He plans to leave his position in June of this year, and the regents hope to have finalists selected in time for campus visits prior to the end of the semester in May.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Bob Miller, 907-474-7272