Gordon Rowe gave remarks about the parameters of the questioning to Academic Search Consultants, Inc. and stated that no information would be disclosed during the questioning regarding individual unsuccessful candidates.

Dr. Mac Stewart and Dr. Wanda Bigham of Academic Search, Inc. presented to the Board on the search process. They stated that the process followed during the University's presidential search was typical for the state and for the region. It was essentially the same process that has been followed at multiple universities across the country and is very similar to the search processes used recently at Morehead St. University and Western Kentucky University in their presidential searches.

Dr. Bigham stated that Academic Search has followed the process outlined in its original proposal to the Presidential Search Committee.

She also described how the process worked. The process began with a review of the candidates' credentials by the Presidential Search Committee. That was followed by surveys across the campus, the results of which were used to prepare the profile for the University, which was used in national advertisements calling for nominations and submission of applications for the KSU presidency.

As candidates started to apply, they were required to provide references, CVs and other relevant information for the Presidential Search Committee to review. Academic Search recruited potential candidates, through advertisements and their own resources in the market, from November to January. Sixty-eight (68) applications were received by the “best date” in January. The Presidential Search Committee reviewed the credentials of all 68 candidates and narrowed the list to eight (8) semifinalists.

Interviews of the 8 semifinalists took place on February 5. Candidates were asked standardized questions at those interviews. Based on the interviews, three (3) finalists were selected by the Presidential Search Committee and that list was brought before the Board.

Dr. Bigham indicated that she believes the final candidates have excellent credentials and are very strong choices.

Regent Paul Harnice asked some questions of Academic Search. He first thanked the Search Committee for their service. He asked about the terms of Academic Search's contract with the University. He also inquired about the interviews of key stakeholders. Academic Search responded that they conducted both telephone and on-campus interviews of key stakeholders. Wanda Bigham stated that there was more feedback from stakeholders at Kentucky State University than what occurs at many institutions.