Students play a key role in selecting the Kansas State College of Agriculture’s new dean, even as the process enters its final stages. The next hire will guide the college through its shift in research funding opportunities, as well as university-wide transitions coming with the Next-Gen K-State Strategic Plan. 

Student feedback was a primary consideration in the final decision-making. As previous financial assistance no longer exists for the college, both faculty and students believe identifying new funding opportunities should be key in hiring a qualified candidate. 

Without sustained funding, the college will not be able to successfully carry out Next-Gen Plan priorities such as academic innovation, industry partnerships, global research impact and preparing students for careers in agriculture.

“We’re really looking for someone who can work through changes in funding and find new avenues and partnerships to continue the research work that we do,” Deana Core, director of recruitment, said.

Students were invited to attend open forums from each candidate, review application materials and submit candidate feedback surveys.  Two students even served on the search committee alongside faculty, staff and other community stakeholders. Lauren Wolter, junior in animal science, was appointed to serve on the search committee along with graduate student Rachel Johnson. 

“My opinions were taken into equal consideration as any other search committee member,” Wolter said. “At times, my thoughts would be specifically requested when a student perspective was relevant.” 

The search committee is currently reviewing submitted feedback and preparing for its final meeting. Following that meeting, the committee will share its recommendations with provost Jesse Mendez and other university leadership to make a final decision. 

“We need someone willing to honor the past and our history, but also take us into the future … be innovative and work together collaboratively to prepare the next generation of students and expand research that impacts the world,” Core said.