Email: Novermber 10, 2025 Update on Presidential Search Process from Trustee Ken Rickson
FROM: The Office of the President on Behalf of Ken Rickson, Presidential Search Committee Chair
Dear Members of the Western New England University Community,
I am pleased to share an update on Charting the Future: The Presidential Search at WNE.
The Presidential Search Committee was announced in mid-August and includes faculty, staff, students, and members of the Board of Trustees, reflecting a broad cross-section of our University community. I am grateful for their thoughtful service and dedication to this process.
In conjunction with WittKieffer, our search partners, the process formally began at the end of August with a series of on-campus stakeholder meetings. These conversations with students, faculty, and staff were invaluable in shaping the qualities and priorities outlined in the Presidential Leadership Profile. Your insights helped us clearly define what our next president will need to lead Western New England University into its next chapter.
Over the last three months, the search has attracted significant interest. Since the Leadership Profile went live, we have received nearly 170 applications. According to WittKieffer, this volume of highly qualified candidates is approximately 50 percent higher than what is typical for a presidential search and is a strong testament to WNE’s reputation and momentum. It is also noteworthy given the competitive landscape; currently, there are roughly 70 presidential searches underway nationwide, including 10–12 at institutions in New England or at peer institutions.
The search committee has completed its initial review, and we look forward to conducting the first round of interviews in the coming weeks. The search remains on schedule, and we are confident in the process and the caliber of the candidates we are advancing.
Thank you to all who have contributed input and support to this important effort. We will continue to keep the campus community informed as the search progresses.
Sincerely,
Ken Rickson
Trustee
Chair of the Presidential Search Committee