UMDNJ Presidential Search Committee

Letter to the UMDNJ Community:

As a new member of the UMDNJ Board of Trustees, I first wanted to express my thanks for the warm reception I have received from all those with whom I have met. It is clear to me that so many of you remain committed to advancing the unique mission of this institution, despite the many distractions and challenges which present themselves. In my judgment it is a transformational moment for UMDNJ. Our next President will have the opportunity, by supporting the creative efforts of our faculty, students and staff, to create enormous social product for the citizens of New Jersey, for education in medicine and dentistry and the associated medical sciences, for innovation in clinical practice and for biomedical research. Moreover he or she will have the great advantage of being able to build on the excellence that already exists on our campuses. The challenge will be great, but so too are the potential rewards and satisfactions. It is in this spirit of progress to the next level of achievement and of informed hope – and in my role as Chairperson of the UMDNJ Presidential Search Committee – that I write today.

As you may have heard, the UMDNJ Board of Trustees has formed a search committee to identify the best possible candidate for the important position of University President. Our committee is comprised of many dedicated individuals – from varied disciplines, geographies, and backgrounds. Several of those asked to serve have participated in the presidential search process at some of our nation’s top academic centers.

We have charted what I believe to be a very sound search process, which conforms with UMDNJ traditions (and By Laws) and which ensures, consultation with all key constituencies, integrity and openness. We have also established a time frame for our review that is aggressive, yet will allow us to attain our goal. That being said, the committee will not rush its work merely for the sake of expediency, as we recognize that this university is at a critical juncture in its history. In any case we will keep the community informed regarding our progress.

In order for our committee to carry out its charge in a manner that advances the interests of all of you, we ask that anyone with thoughts on the process, or with suggestions as to the qualifications of candidates best suited to lead the University, forward them to our attention at the following email address: Pressearch@umdnj.edu.

We will continue to provide ongoing communications with you as the search process progresses over the coming weeks and months.

Thank you for your interest and continued work on behalf of education, scholarship, clinical care and the people of our state.

Sincerely,

Harold T. Shapiro, Ph.D.
Chairperson
Presidential Search Committee

cc: Mr. Robert DelTufo
Chairperson, UMDNJ Board of Trustees