The top candidate for SIU Carbondale's Chancellor position has withdrawn from consideration, and leaders say that will stall the search for a new campus leader.
Oregon State University Vice President and Provost Sabah Randhawa has taken his name out of the running, after meeting with SIU's Board of Trustees last week as one of two finalists.
SIU President Randy Dunn says they were in the process of negotiating when Randhawa made his decision to withdraw. While financial details haven't been disclosed, Dunn says Illinois' budget uncertainty played into Randhawa's decision.
“These are major decisions for candidates as well as institutions, and it is often during the final phases of the process that decisions become clear based on the unique interests of the candidate and the unique nature of the institution,” Dunn said.
As a result of Randhawa's decision, the search for a new SIUC Chancellor has been suspended.
SIUC Vice Chancellor and Provost Susan Ford was the other finalist who met with Trustees. She and two others joined Randhawa in a series of presentations to the campus community earlier this spring.
Dunn says he and Trustees will discuss their next steps at a meeting in July. Dunn will act in his dual role as President and Chancellor until a decision is made for the future.
