Ohio University's top student affairs administrator could soon be on the move.
In an email sent to Student Affairs employees earlier this afternoon, Ohio University Vice President for Student Affairs Kent Smith announced he is one of four finalists for the presidency of Langston University, in Langston, Okla.
"Many of you are probably not aware that I graduated from an HBCU (Historically Black College or University) and it has always been my dream to become a president at such an institution," Smith wrote in the email.
Smith is a two-time graduate of Southern University and A&M College, an HBCU in Baton Rouge, La.
"Please understand that while this is not a position I sought initially, it is one that is exciting for me and my family," Smith wrote.
Smith, who is the longest tenured of OU's five vice presidents, came to OU in 2006 after serving as dean of students at Auburn University.
Ohio University President Roderick McDavis said he was aware of the announcement, which will be officially made by the Oklahoma Board of Regents later today.
"It's bittersweet; on the one hand, we would love to have Kent Smith stay as our vice president for Student Affairs," McDavis said. "On the other hand, we're very proud that other institutions see his talent and skill set to the extent that they named him a finalist for the position."
Reached by phone, Smith said he has yet to visit the 4,000-student campus.
"I don't have any other applications out there, so it's not like I'm searching," Smith said, adding that Langston plans to choose its next president by the end of the month.
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—Rebecca McKinsey and Brian Vadakin contributed to this report.
