FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – University of Arkansas Chancellor G. David Gearhart has appointed an eight-member committee to seek and review candidates for vice chancellor for governmental relations. Kathy Van Laningham, vice provost for planning, has been appointed to chair the search committee. Richard Hudson, who currently holds the vice chancellor position, is retiring at the end of July.

 “Given the complex funding and policy issues in public higher education, it’s critical to find an individual who can embrace the full spectrum of the university’s mission and help us communicate that mission to constituents throughout the state of Arkansas,” said Gearhart. “I’m confident that Dr. Van Laningham’s previous experience as senior assistant for education in the governor’s office and as a policy analyst for the Bureau of Legislative Research gives her the background needed to lead this search committee. By also including members from both on and off the campus, we hope to reach out across the state to find the right fit for this key role in the university.” 

The search committee includes the following members: 

• Jerry Adams, president and CEO, Arkansas Research Alliance
• Lynda Coon, professor, department of history
• Steve Higginbothom, former state senator, District 16
• Stacy Leeds, dean, School of Law
• Katy Nelson-Ginder, assistant vice chancellor for university development
• Charles Robinson, vice chancellor for diversity and community
• Melissa Rust, vice president for university relations, University of Arkansas System
• Gary Smith, president, Glass Erectors

Details about the position are available at the University of Arkansas Human Resources website with directions on applying for the position.

The committee will meet on Monday, Feb. 24, to discuss time lines and to begin the process for reviewing applications.