Howard L. Hawks, chairman of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, issued a statement Thursday on the search for candidates for the position of president of the university.
It read:
“The Board of Regents has launched a national search to identify and recruit the most highly qualified and capable candidates for the position of president of the University of Nebraska. Although it is still quite early in the process, we are pleased with the significantly growing national interest already being shown in the position. Our goal, with the assistance of our search consultants, is to build as deep, rich and diverse a pool of applicants as is possible from throughout the country.
“There has been a level of attention given to public comments made by Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman this week regarding his possible interest in being considered for the presidency. Obviously, the Board of Regents would welcome the governor’s application for the position, just as we will the candidacy of any other individual who believes he or she has the qualifications and experiences necessary to effectively lead our university system and to continue its positive momentum and trajectory.
“We have every expectation that this nationwide search will attract a wide range of candidates from varied backgrounds. Should the governor decide to apply for the position, his candidacy would be considered and evaluated like that of any other applicant. This will be an open, fair and competitive search for the best person possible to lead the University of Nebraska. The search process is designed to be confidential until four finalists are publicly named, in accordance with Nebraska statutes. On the other hand, it is obvious that potential candidates may choose to reveal their interest.
“In my view, it would be inappropriate for the Board of Regents to comment or to speculate regarding the possible candidacy of any individuals. It is in the best interest of the University of Nebraska that the confidentiality of the search process be respected and maintained. The Board of Regents does not intend to reveal the names of any nominees or applicants for the position until four finalists are publicly identified.
“We look forward to having a large and robust pool of applicants from which to choose the best candidate to be the next president of the University of Nebraska.”