USF Seeks Community Input in Exciting Presidential Search Journey

South Bay, USA - The University of South Florida (USF) is currently in the midst of a presidential search, actively encouraging public involvement to shape the future leadership of the institution. According to Tampa Bay Times, Mike Griffin, chairperson of the presidential search committee, announced an opportunity for community stakeholders to share their anonymous insights via a digital survey. This democratic approach aims to gather diverse opinions on the qualities ideal for the next president of USF.

In an effort to facilitate further dialogue, a virtual listening session is slated for July 15, where community members can express their thoughts and priorities directly. USF has been proactive in engaging its faculty, students, and staff, having already hosted multiple listening sessions as part of this comprehensive feedback initiative. Following this, the search committee is set to meet on August 6, where they will draft a position profile for the prospective candidate, ensuring the process remains transparent and inclusive.

The Search Process and Committee Structure

As USF navigates this pivotal process, they have chosen to work with Korn Ferry—a firm known for its expertise in executive recruitment and higher education—rather than SP&A, which faced challenges during the University of Florida’s recent presidential search. Information regarding business relationships with both firms has been kept under wraps since communications are not subject to public records, as noted by a USF spokesperson.

The presidential search committee was established on February 20, 2025, by Board of Trustees Chair Will Weatherford. This advisory entity plays a crucial role in recommending candidates to the USF Board of Trustees, which retains the authority to interview finalists and make the final selection, pending confirmation from the Board of Governors. The entire process is broken down into four key phases:

• Listening sessions and search committee orientation.
• Board of Trustees approval of the search plan and position description.
• The search process, including candidate identification and interviews.
• Interviews and selection of the next president by the USF Board of Trustees, with Board of Governors confirmation.

President Law will remain in his role until a successor is appointed, ensuring continuity during this transition. Stakeholders are invited to share their thoughts on the essential qualities needed in the new leader through an anonymous form, which demonstrates the university’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment.

Engagement and Community Involvement

Beyond the digital survey, engagement is at the heart of this search. Updates and additional details about the process are available on the presidential search website, where community members can access dates and times for future listening sessions and search committee meetings. This proactive stance invites public participation in a process that typically unfolds behind closed doors.

The composition of the Presidential Search Committee is noteworthy, featuring co-chairs John F. Nicolai and Jeff Silk, along with a diverse membership that includes faculty, staff, students, and community representatives. The Search Advisory Committee—co-chaired by Mary Del Santo and Eileen Fung—will streamline feedback sessions and channel community input to the Presidential Search Committee, making the process more representative of the USF community.

This search for leadership at USF is not just about filling a position; it’s about engaging the community and ensuring the future direction of the university aligns with the values and expectations of those it serves. With an open channel for feedback and a structured process in place, the institution is poised to find a leader who does justice to its mission and aspirations.

As the search unfolds, there’s something to be said for community engagement in such pivotal decisions. Everyone has a stake in the university’s future, and this open approach ensures that the eventual candidate will have a considerable backing of support from the very community they will lead.