Kohrman named interim provost
Jerry Hoffman“I was happy to help out CMU and help out the president and help the university go forward with the goals the president has set forth,” Kohrman said. “I’m very happy to do my best to keep CMU on the vision (University President) Michael Rao has set for us.”
Some members of the committee agreed with Rao’s choice.
“He’s a dean that has been here a long time. He knows the university and understands what the job is. The president wanted to pick someone who has administrative experience,” said Academic Senate Chairman Wayne Osborn, provost and vice president of academic affairs search committee chairman.
The search was extended following Rao’s decision to not hire the five finalists recommended by the committee. He expects the search to continue for six months to a year after the committee reconvenes, Kohrman said.
“I think Bob is an excellent choice for the position. He has a strong reputation as a scholar. Most importantly, Bob can continue making progress on the university’s goals for the coming year,” said Dean of Students Bruce Roscoe, search committee member.
Rao was unavailable for comment, but said Kohrman was very qualified for the position.
“I’m very pleased that Bob has agreed to serve the university in this capacity as we continue our search for a permanent executive vice president and provost,” Rao said in a written statement. “Bob is a seasoned administrator who is well-respected by his academic colleagues. He has tremendous institutional knowledge and an outstanding record in teaching, research and administration.”
Kohrman said he is not a candidate for the permanent provost position, but is looking forward to the interim position.
“I see it as a continuation of what I do now as dean of Science and Technology,” Kohrman said. “At this point in my career, I can’t give the long-term commitment a provost would need to make.”
Richard St. Andre, associate dean of the College of Science and Technology, will fill in for Kohrman.
“I think we can keep the college going strong. I’m starting to think about what needs to be done, what we need to keep going and how to make some good things even better,” he said.
The search will continue in the fall, when all committee members can participate.
Rao said he wants the same people to participate in the search, but is unsure whether they will want to do that.
