Three semifinalists vie for top job at Winona State

Three semifinalists are competing to replace departing Winona State University President Judith Ramaley.

The candidates will visit Winona State University this week and next to meet faculty, staff, students and community members.

One of the three semifinalists is Anne Huot, provost and vice president for academic affairs at the College at Brockport, State University of New York (SUNY) since 2007.

Another candidate is Scott R. Olson, who has served as provost and vice president for academic and student affairs and professor at Minnesota State University, Mankato since 2003.

The third semifinalist is Jem Spectar, who has served as president and professor of the University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown since 2007.

WSU's next president will earn at least $160,000 annually, according to MnSCU officials. The university received more than 60 applications for the position, which became available when Ramaley announced last August this will be her final year with the university. Ramaley is the 14th president at WSU and the first female president.

A special Search Advisory Committee chaired by St. Cloud State University President Earl Potter recommended the three candidates to MnSCU Chancellor Steven Rosenstone.

Rosenstone will select the final list and make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees, who will make the final choice at the May 16 meeting. The new president is expected to begin July 1.

(Photos courtesy of Winona State University)

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