Two Columbia College presidential finalists named

COLUMBIA, Mo., Jan. 2, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Two finalists have been named for the position of president at Columbia College.

Scott Dalrymple, Ph.D., Dean of the School of Liberal Arts at Excelsior College, Albany, N.Y.

Randall W. Hanna, J.D., Chancellor of the Florida College System, Tallahassee, Fla.

"The search committee is enthusiastic to share the outstanding finalists with everyone," said Daisy Grossnickle, chair of the college's board of trustees. "When choosing the finalist candidates, it was imperative that they understand the breadth of our institution and are capable of leading Columbia College into the future."

Both candidates will visit the college's first nationwide campus in St. Louis. From there, candidates will spend their second day meeting with constituents including trustees, administrative council members, students, staff, faculty and community members in Columbia. Candidates also will have the opportunity to engage with staff, faculty and students at nationwide campuses through a livestream of the forums.

"With 35 Nationwide campuses in 13 different states, we have unique needs in our next president," said Mike Randerson, vice president of Adult Higher Education. "Either of these candidates will be able to capitalize on the strengths of each campus, while taking us to new heights."

A survey will be available online for those who have a chance to meet with the candidates.

"I encourage everyone that has the opportunity to give feedback through the survey provided to do so," said Grossnickle. "The information collected will be valuable as the Board of Trustees makes its decision of the 17^th President of Columbia College."

The search for the college's next president began shortly after Dr. Gerald Brouder, president emeritus, announced his retirement. The college hired a company called Academic Search to help select the finalists.

Founded in 1851 in Columbia, Mo., Columbia College has been helping students advance their lives through higher education for more than 160 years. As a private, nonprofit, liberal arts and sciences institution, the college takes pride in its small classes, experienced faculty and quality educational programs. With more than 30 Nationwide Campuses across the country, 18 of which are on military installations, students may enroll in day, evening or online classes. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association. Columbia College educates more than 31,000 students each year and has more than 80,000 alumni. For more information, visit www.ccis.edu.

Candidate biographies can be found online at: www.ccis.edu/ccpresident

Scott Dalrymple

Jan. 12 – 13: Visit to St. Louis and Columbia campuses

A community and media forum will be held in Columbia, Mo.:
Monday, Jan. 13
10:45 a.m. CST
Bixby Lecture Hall
Watch live:
www.ccis.edu/livestream

Randall Hanna 
Jan. 13-14: Visit to St. Louis and Columbia campuses

A community and media forum will be held in Columbia, Mo.:
Tuesday, Jan. 14
10:45 a.m. CST
Bixby Lecture Hall
Watch live: www.ccis.edu/livestream

Brandi Herrman
Associate Director, Public Relations
(573) 875-7731
[email protected]

SOURCE Columbia College