I am pleased to report that the search for the 14th president of the College is progressing to the semi-finalist interview phase. The dedication of the Search Committee continues to inspire me and the caliber of the candidates is remarkable. We greatly appreciate each person who has invested themselves in the search process, the candidates in particular. Many fine Christ-centered leaders have engaged with us.
Prior to its selection of the semi-finalist candidates, the Committee conducted phone interviews with references for a cohort of candidates. The references provided the Committee with insight regarding the candidates which informed its selection of the semi-finalists. This winnowing process was challenging for one reason — the great depth and strength of the candidate pool.
The semi-finalists have been invited to meet with the Committee for in-depth in-person interviews off campus on November 2nd and 3rd. Following these interviews, one or more candidates will be invited to visit campus, most likely mid to late November. The Committee expects to make its recommendation to the Board of Trustees prior to the special Board meeting currently scheduled for December 7th.
We are mindful that in ultimately inviting one individual to serve as president, there will be disappointment among the candidates who do not advance. We feel the disappointment that is rooted in a strong desire to serve the College. We encourage all members of the Hope community to continue to pray for the next president and for the future of the College.
The mission of the College is clear. The work of the Search Committee is advancing. And God reigns.
Spera in Deo,
Suzanne Shier and the Search Committee
The mission of Hope College is to educate students for lives of leadership and service in a global society through academic and co-curricular programs of recognized excellence in the liberal arts and in the context of the historic Christian faith.