A Florida State University presidential candidate who didn’t get a second interview is giving their take on the three finalists.
FSU Panama City Dean Randy Hanna says he was honored that the university's presidential search committee considered his application and gave him a first interview. Though he wasn't among the three candidates interviewed a second time, he says the committee selected strong finalists.
"Three candidates who will bring a focus on research to Florida State University, which is critical," Hanna said. "They’ll also continue the strong focus on student success."
The committee selected Harvard University’s Richard McCullough, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill’s Robert Blouin and Tulane University’s Giovanni Pedimonte for second interviews, which took place earlier this week. All three are competing to replace outgoing President John Thrasher, who's retiring from the post after almost seven years.
Hanna says he and other university deans have had a chance to meet with the finalists. "I look forward to working with whichever candidate is selected."
On Monday, the Board of Trustees is expected to select a candidate for a final interview with the Board of Governors, which will ultimately determine who leads the university next.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the board's decision. I've been on boards that have selected college and university presidents, and it's not an easy job," Hanna said. "They've got some great candidates to choose from here."
