Adams State presidential search on track for May appointment

ADAMS State’s search for a new president is on track, with the committee having just finalized writing the leadership profile for the position and preparing to market the job through a national search firm, said Mark Martinez, co-chair of the Adams State President Search Committee.

“It’s a big ask, but it’s a national search and so we’re trying to nail what we’re after,” Martinez said of the work that went into developing the leadership profile. There was an emphasis on creating a sense of place around Alamosa and the San Luis Valley so that potential applicants can see themselves here and are inspired to apply, Martinez said.

A strong fiscal manager, a strategic vision for Adams State, and someone who displays “soft skills” to build morale and create a positive work environment are attributes in candidates the committee will be looking for.

Adams State has hired WittKieffer, an executive search firm, to market the position and manage the application process. Martinez said a new president for Adams State should be in place by mid-May when the spring semester comes to a close.

The university is seeking its 12th president in the school’s history following the dismissal last June of Cheryl Lovell. Adams State named David Tandberg interim president with the stipulation that Tandberg would not be a candidate for the permanent position.

Martinez and fellow Adams State Trustee Jonathan Marquez are co-chairing the search committee.