Presidential Search Listening Sessions Conclude

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Baylor University's Presidential Search Committee wrapped up its scheduled listening sessions this week with three events for alumni and friends.

Dallas/Fort Worth area alumni and friends participated in afternoon and evening sessions held on Tuesday, May 19, while Waco and Central Texas alumni and friends took part in an evening session held Thursday, May 21, on the Baylor campus. These follow alumni listening sessions held in Houston on May 5 and San Antonio on May 7.

These events conclude the series of listening sessions that began April 14 and encompassed nine general sessions - two for faculty, one each for students and staff, and five for alumni and other friends. Additionally, private sessions for Waco-area community leaders, Baptist General Convention of Texas leaders, Baylor faculty, Council of Deans, Staff Council, Student Government and Executive Council were held.

In all, more than 500 participants shared their perspective about the personal and professional characteristics and credentials that are most important in Baylor's next president. The common themes emerging from the sessions were that Baylor's next leader should be a committed Christian who is an effective servant-leader. Participants want someone who will be active on campus and in the community, who is determined to maintain Baylor's national preeminence in Christian higher education and is passionate about the university's mission and vision.

"I have been very impressed with how much we all agree on the type of person the next president should be," Presidential Search Advisory Committee Chair Kenneth Hall said. "The Regents have set an excellent process in motion that shows they truly value the input of the advisory committee and all the constituents we represent. It also shows potential candidates that the search process is inclusive. It is a process that represents the Baylor family well, and I appreciate the contributions of every participant in the listening sessions."

"These listening sessions have accomplished exactly what we had intended. Hundreds of dedicated members of the Baylor family, representing every constituency and area of university life, came forward and spoke out of their deep love for Baylor and their desire to see her prosper," Presidential Search Committee Chair Joe Armes said. "Collectively, they provided a wealth of good advice and it was a rewarding experience for those of us who had the opportunity to listen as we were reminded again and again of what makes Baylor such a special place. We will now synthesize the information we've gathered and make sure that all that we have heard informs the position description that we will create for the presidential search.

"I am extremely grateful to every participant," Armes said. "Each gave of their time, talents and experience to help Baylor in this important endeavor, and I thank everyone who has contributed to this stage of the search process. Baylor is truly blessed to be the beneficiary of such enormous commitment and dedication."

Additional information, including a form to continue providing input to the search committee and audio podcasts of all open sessions, can be found at www.baylor.edu/president/search.