PRESIDENTIAL ATTRIBUTES
To provide the leadership required to enhance the University’s distinguished place in the higher education community, it will be important that the next President have the following attributes:
• A demonstrated commitment to academic excellence and to the ideals of a nationally recognized State University;
• The ability to articulate those ideals fearlessly and persuasively;
• A principled view of the world and the confidence to make decisions, in part, founded upon those principles;
• A strategic thinker with the capacity to build upon South Carolina State’s vision and mission;
• A deep understanding of what goes into excellent research, teaching, scholarship and service;
• An appreciation of South Carolina State’s distinctive culture and values, and its special niche in higher education;
• A commitment to embrace diversity in thought and action;
• A terminal degree with significant and successful administrative or executive experience and evidence of the ability to recruit and retain highly effective professional staff;
• An aptitude and passion for asking others to support an exceptional institution financially;
• A commitment to be a collaborative partner with the community and neighborhoods surrounding the University;
• A collaborative leadership style that builds upon relationships and a sense of community and teamwork;
• Experience in working with state and national legislatures and with the corporate and business community;
• An excellent mind with a broad vision, varied interests, a fresh perspective, balanced judgment and creativity and a person who is open to new ideas;
• A commitment to building relationships with South Carolina State’s students, faculty, alumni, community business partners and other stakeholders;
• A capacity to strategically manage growth and resource allocation, budget savvy;
• Excellent communication skills, with a comfortable public presence;
• The ability to create an inclusive and supportive educational community that is learner-centered and skill in bringing stakeholders together with enthusiasm and humor.
