MSU begins reviewing presidential applications

Missouri State University's 20-member presidential search committee on July 20 began reviewing 38 applications filed to fill the school's top post, which was vacated last summer.

According to a news release, 34 applications were submitted by the July 13 "optimal consideration" date, and four others had arrived since. The committee will continue to accept applications until the position is filled.

By late September, the committee expects to recommend two to four finalists to the MSU Board of Governors. Finalists will visit the campus during three-day visits in early October, and the board is hoping to name a new president by Nov. 1, the release said.

“I am confident we will have a group of outstanding candidates from which to choose. The presidency at Missouri State University is an attractive position, not only for the institution itself, but for the city, the setting and the general quality of life," said search committee Chairman Joe Turner,  president and CEO of Great Southern Bank, in the release.

Clif Smart - who has served as interim president since the June 2011 resignation of MSU's 10th president, James Cofer - has confirmed he has applied for the permanent position.