Gatrell a finalist for West Liberty University President

Corryn Brock, News Editor

Eastern Provost Jay Gatrell has been named a finalist for the position of president at West Liberty University.

Gatrell is one of the four finalists for the position. West Liberty University’s search for a new president resulted in more than 70 applicants.

According to the Associated Press, West Liberty University expects the new president to be in place by January.

The current president of the university announced his retirement in June but agreed to stay on until November.

The university reopened the search for a president in August after three of the original four

Eastern Provost Jay Gatrell speaks to Eastern’s Faculty Senate Nov. 12, 2019 in Booth Library. Gatrell updated the Senate on searches for two vice president positions and two dean positions. (File Photo)

finalists withdrew from consideration.

Gatrell will visit West Liberty University Nov. 4 – 5.

Other finalists for the position are Montana State University Billings Provost Melinda Arnold, Voorhees College President W. Franklin Evans and Mercyhurst University President Michael Victor.

If Gatrell was offered and accepted the position of West Liberty University President, Eastern President David Glassman would appoint an interim provost.

Gatrell has served in his position at Eastern since July 1, 2017.

Before coming to Eastern Gatrell served as Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs and Research at Bellarmine University.

According to a press release from West Liberty University, Gatrell “is anxious for an opportunity to return to the Mountain State,” after having earned his Ph.D. from West Virginia University.

Gatrell declined to comment on the matter due to his schedule not “(permitting) time for an interview.”

Corryn Brock can be reached at 581-2812 or at [email protected].