Ross will not seek University Nebraska job
President George Ross has removed himself from the University of Nebraska president search.
Ross announced his withdrawal Friday before sharing his decision with the campus community in a press release. One of four candidates, Ross made his announcement three days before the Board of Regents was scheduled to meet in a closed session to discuss the selection of their new president.
"It was a tremendous honor to be asked to interview for the role, and it was rewarding to spend four days experiencing all that is NU," Ross said in the release. "However, after much soul-searching during the holiday break, (my wife) Elizabeth and I have determined that our place is here at Central Michigan University."
Ross spoke of CMU’s expanding academic leadership and his belief that the university is the first choice for those who seek a campus where students inspire each other to "pursue excellence in a collaborative, caring and encouraging way."
At the Dec. 9 CMU Board of Trustees meeting, Ross received a warm response from many of the trustees, who reaffirmed their support and confidence in his leadership. Over the break he received a base salary raise to $430,000.
The Board of Trustees unanimously voted to raise President George Ross' base salary from $371,280 per year, along with an annual retention payment of $30,000, made each June 30 starting in 2015.
Chair William Kanine said over the break that the salary adjustment was "shark repellant," intended to stay competitive with offers recruiters looking to attract Ross.
"Elizabeth and I discussed our ability to interact with and have personal relationships with CMU students, faculty and staff and, in the end, we realized that our hearts are here," Ross said. "We knew our commitment is to the future that all of us are building, together, as One CMU."
Ross also thanked members of the CMU community for their support over the last several months.
