During the recent search for Washington State University’s new president, committee members were reminded of the university’s growing national reputation.
More than 15 candidates, including presidents and provosts from major universities across the United States, were interviewed. By their presence and by their comments, those well-connected administrators provided a window into the ephemeral world of institutional reputation.
“The best indicator of WSU’s reputation is that we were able to recruit an outstanding group of candidates to interview,” said Dan Bernardo, search committee member and dean of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences. “If they didn’t like WSU, they would not have been there.
“Every single one was extremely impressed with WSU — not only where we are, but the progress we’ve made in the last few years.”
“The candidates knew we were moving up in reputation,” echoed Loretta Dragoo, program coordinator for Administrative Services who also served on the search committee. “The candidates shared positive assessments of WSU.
“I was surprised WSU’s reputation was so strong. Hearing their comments was a validation of all the progress we have made.”
The candidates all applauded WSU’s progress, agreed search committee member Jason Doss, president of the Graduate and Professional Students Association.
“The candidates spoke of our momentum, the institution’s improvements and growth, and how President Rawlins had built such a strong foundation. I was very impressed by the quality of the candidates and their positive view of our reputation nationally.”
The candidates all recognized that WSU was one of the three best research universities in the Pacific Northwest, said Len Foster, professor of educational leadership, associate dean of research for the College of Education, and a committee member.
“They all knew where we were headed. They agreed that we were poised to take the next step in international stature. They all thought our strategic plan was forward-looking. They reflected a positive general assessment of WSU.
“I was not really surprised by the quality of our reputation,” Foster said. “I know how well we are doing. But it was very nice to hear.”
