FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The University of Arkansas will continue the search to fill the position of dean of the Honors College, the provost announced to the Faculty Senate Wednesday.

"We were unable to make a final choice during this initial search," said Bob Smith, provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. "The three people we brought to campus last month were all qualified to be considered for this role, and we thank them for their time and energy. Unfortunately, we were not able to come to an agreement at this time."

The search for the Honors College dean began in fall 2003. The position was created when the UA Honors College was established in April 2002.

The person selected as dean will report to the provost and will develop a nationally competitive program designed to attract high-achieving students to the university campus. When fully operational, the Honors College will enroll more than 2,000 students.

"I believe the UA Honors College should aspire to gain recognition as the finest honors college in the nation by 2010," Smith said. "The search committee remains committed to its charge of finding the best person to help earn that distinction. I am optimistic that we will succeed in doing so."