Three of the original five candidates interviewed for the position of dean at Ohio University Southern have been named finalists. Former OUS Dean and current Executive Dean of the Ohio University Office of Regional Higher Education Dr. William Willan did not disclose the finalists’ names but did say the decision-making process is underway.

“The three finalists have been on campus and we are currently collecting feedback from everyone who met with them on both the Athens and Ironton campuses,” Willan said. “I will soon meet with Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Pam Benoit, who is the hiring manager, and discuss the feedback.”

OUS English Professor Hayley Haugen was the Dean Search Committee Chair and the last of the five candidates’ on-campus visits was on March 24.

Each of the candidates during his or her visit the their first day on the Southern and Proctorville campuses, met with Evans, Associate Dean Ella Jones and Proctorville Director Stephanie Burcham. They interacted with the search committee and faculty, staff and students on the Southern campus. They also presented a formal presentation to the campus about their leadership style and vision for OUS.

Evans has served as interim dean at OUS since June 2013 after Willan moved into his current position.