by Andie Diemer
Nov. 12, 2008

The university has narrowed down the list of candidates for the provost position to eight individuals out of the 110 applicants for the position of provost.

School of Communications Dean Paul Parson said the search committee, which consists of faculty, staff and students, has selected the individuals for confidential interviews that will be conducted before Thanksgiving.

Parsons, who is a co-chair of the search committee, said based on the nature of the conversations the committee will select around three finalists. They will then be invited to campus for public visits in early December. A public forum will also be held at this time.

In early September, the committee hosted three faculty and staff forums to help develop a better understanding of the expectations for the new provost.

Gerry Francis is currently Elon’s provost as well as the vice president for academic affairs. He will be stepping down from his position to move to the office of executive vice president early next year.

The provost oversees academic affairs, admissions and financial planning, student life, intercollegiate athletics, institutional research, sponsored programs and cultural affairs and also serves as assistant secretary and treasurer of the Board of Trustees.