The Nazareth University Board of Trustees are providing information by email and on this webpage to keep everyone informed and engaged in the presidential search process.
Why is a presidential search being conducted?
President Beth Paul has announced plans to step down from her role in June 2026. We are grateful for her leadership and contributions, and we are beginning the process of identifying the next president to guide Nazareth into the future.
Who oversees the search process?
The Nazareth University Board of Trustees is responsible for the presidential search. A presidential search committee, composed of faculty, staff, students, and trustees in partnership with an executive search firm, will lead the process of identifying, vetting, and recommending final candidates to the Board.
How will the Search Committee be formed?
Committee members will be selected to represent a broad cross-section of the university community. Nazareth's shared governance groups (Faculty Senate, Staff Senate, and Undergrad Association/Graduate Council) will have the opportunity to nominate individuals to the committee. A total of 18 people will make up the committee: four faculty members, four staff members (one of the four will be Chief People Officer Damika Arnold), two students, one alumni representative, six Board members, and the committee chair. The committee will be convened in August 2025.
Will the campus community have a voice in the process?
Yes. Inclusivity is a priority. We will invite input from students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners through listening sessions, open forums, and surveys. Your feedback will help shape the leadership profile and inform the search criteria.
Will the search be confidential or open?
The early stages of the search will be confidential to attract the strongest possible pool of candidates — many of whom may currently be in high-level roles elsewhere. When finalists are invited for campus visits, the search moves into an open phase, where the community will be invited to meet them and provide feedback.
How long will the search take?
The search is expected to take several months, with a goal to announce the new president in Spring 2026. The timeline is flexible to ensure the best outcome.
What is the role of the search firm?
Nazareth will partner with a nationally recognized executive search firm specializing in higher education leadership. They will assist with candidate recruitment, screening, and ensuring a thorough, equitable process. A search firm will be selected by the Board of Trustees in June 2025.
How will the final decision be made?
The Presidential Search Committee will recommend finalists to the Board of Trustees, which holds the final authority to appoint the next president of Nazareth University.
Where can I find updates?
We will regularly post updates on this site and through campus-wide emails.
Who can I contact with questions?
For questions or input related to the presidential search process, please contact: Sean Falzarano, sfalzar8@naz.edu