Members of the media will have an opportunity to interview the three finalists for president of West Virginia University at Parkersburg during the candidates’visits to the regional campus.

The media may attend the open forum portion of the finalists’visits, which will be from 2:15-2:45 p.m., April 26, 28 and 29 in the college theatre (Room 1305).

One of the original finalists has withdrawn his name from contention. Dr. Curtis Smith notified the college last week he has accepted a position in New Hampshire, said Joe Campbell, search and screening committee co-chair. In anticipation of such a circumstance, the committee had already identified other candidates to be invited. Campbell said Dr. Robert Sedlak, provost and vice-chancellor for academic and student affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, has accepted an invitation to interview for the position.

The candidates and their campus visits are:

• Dr. Harry R. Faulk, associate provost at Fairmont State CollegeMonday, April 26

• Dr. Robert Sedlak, provost and vice-chancellor for academic and student affairs at the University of Wisconsin-StoutWednesday, April 28

• Dr. Marie Foster Gnage, senior vice president for academic affairs at Raritan Valley Community CollegeThursday, April 29

In addition to the open forums, the three finalists will meet with students, faculty, staff and community representatives during their campus visits. They are also meeting with administrators at West Virginia University.

The presidency was vacated in June 2003 when Erik Bitterbaum took a similar position at SUNY Cortland after three years at the Parkersburg campus. Dr. Joseph L. Badgley, dean of academic affairs, has been serving as interim president. Bitterbaum’s successor, who will also be a regional vice president reporting to WVU President David C. Hardesty Jr., is expected to be named by July.