‘Deep concerns’ come from the Graduate Professional Student Council regarding internal search for SIUC’s next provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs. 

A new memorandum from GPSC was sent to Interim Chancellor John Dunn, dated Nov. 6, and published on the Faculty Association’s website. The letter voices concerns with the search regarding the handling of the search, format and timing.

The letter said the council is unsure of the provided rationales for an internal search in regard to the position requirements, applicant availability and the position’s role within the university.

Some of the concerns the council addressed included the standard of the hiring procedure, whether sufficient time was provided to receive applications, if there is a sufficient number of applicants and if conflicts of interest can be prevented.

“Additionally, the appropriateness for the timing of the search is unclear to our council,” the letter said. “In our expectations for successful searches, candidates are evaluated and chosen according to requirements outlined by those to whom the individual will report.”

The letter said the council does not think the criteria for the search has been met. They are unsure of how the candidate can have sufficient clarity to pursue the position.

“Our council is nonetheless struggling to understand the appropriateness for limiting the search internally,” the letter said. “Our concern follows in part from the Illinois Inspector General’s findings regarding past hires which did not follow or evaded existing policy.”

The council also said they were unsure how the search committee and others in the hiring process may accurately and effectively evaluate the qualifications of candidates, prior to the hiring of the next chancellor.

Other groups and members of campus, including the Faculty Association and student trustee Brione Lockett, have voiced concerns about the internal search.

See more: (Internal search for new SIUC provost leads to internal conflict)

A campus conversation is scheduled for today at 4:30 p.m. in the Student Center Saline room. GPSC President Claw Awsumb will be in attendance speaking alongside Undergraduate Student Government president Colton Newlin and Lockett.

News Editor Brandi Courtois can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter at @Brandi_Courtois.

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