Western Illinois University President Dr. Jack Thomas is one of five finalists in the search to replace the outgoing president at Boise State University.
Boise State University is Idaho’s largest university with more than 20,000 students enrolled. BSU President Bob Kustra is set to retire at the end of June after nearly 15 years with the university. He previously served as Illinois' Lt. Governor under Gov. Jim Edgar.
According to the university, a national search netted 53 candidates for the position of President. A final selection will be made by the end of May.
The five finalists are:
- Dr. Jack Thomas, President, Western Illinois University
- Dr. James Lentini, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Oakland University
- Dr. Kevin Reynolds, Vice President for Finance and Administration, Portland State University
- Dr. Robbyn Wacker, Senior Campaign Advisor for Development and Alumni Relations, University of Northern Colorado
- Dr. Daniel Weeks, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Northern British-Columbia
Initial interviews were held in early April. Campus visits will be conducted over the next two weeks, with Thomas scheduled to visit on Thursday, April 26 to participate in forums with faculty, staff, and students.
Thomas has served as president of Western Illinois University since 2011. Before that, he was provost at WIU.
UPDATE: WIU's spokeswoman set a statement from President Jack Thomas to TSPR on Friday.
From President Jack Thomas:
"Because of my 10-year tenure as president and provost at Western Illinois University, which has been the most rewarding of my career, I have recently been contacted by search firms and nominated for a number of positions. This is clearly an indication of a national respect for Western and its accomplishments, even during these difficult times.
Like my colleagues across the University, I have been impacted by the unprecedented state budgetary crisis. Therefore, I am exploring those positions for which I have been nominated.
I hope the University community realizes that I remain committed to working hard and advocating for this great University for as long as I serve as president."
