University of New Orleans begins search for new chancellor
WWL TV News
November 11, 2010
The search for a new leader at the University of New Orleans officially begins at a time when the school, like others across the state, faces more budget cuts.
This time, it’s a projected 32 percent reduction.
At the chancellor search committee's first meeting today, LSU System President Dr. John Lombardi talked about the challenges.
"That number is a serious problem, not only for the institution, but for the recruitment process as well," he said.
The harsh financial realities led to a rocky start to the school year.
Sept. 1, a group of students protesting the cuts tried to storm then-Chancellor Tim Ryan's office, an incident that led to students being arrested and injuries for the campus police chief.
A couple weeks later, Ryan's departure sparked more controversy. LSU officials said he resigned, while Ryan said he was fired.
We asked Lombardi if those contentious circumstances could deter potential candidates.
"Most of us who have been in higher education for any period of time have seen these transitions,” he said. “They're often like this -- not as graceful as we would like them to be, but I don't think anybody will be confused."
The 21-member committee, which includes some faculty members and students, is expected to recommend three finalists.
