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Meet the final four in FSU's presidential search

 
John Thrasher, Florida state senator.
John Thrasher, Florida state senator.
Published Sept. 17, 2014

TALLAHASSEE — Most of the attention surrounding the search for Florida State University's next president has been on state Sen. John Thrasher. But he is just one of four finalists, and the only who has never worked in higher education.

On Page 7B, you'll find more about all four finalists and why they want the job, gleaned from resumes and cover letters they submitted.

The FSU board of trustees is expected to make a final selection Tuesday, though that could change because one of the finalists, Michael Martin, had to postpone his interview after having emergency surgery for a detached retina.

Richard B. Marchase

Age: 66

Position: Vice president of research and economic development at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Career highlights: UAB interim president, 2012-2013; UAB vice president for research, 2004-present; UAB School of Medicine senior associate dean for biomedical research, 2000-2006.

Degrees: Duke University postdoctoral fellowship, 1976-1978; Johns Hopkins University Ph.D. in biophysics, 1976; Cornell University bachelor's in engineering physics, 1970.

Why does he want the job? "I am especially eager to lead an institution that is striving to be recognized among the Top 25 public research universities with a plan that relies heavily on investing in its STEM disciplines and that emphasizes entrepreneurship."

Skills highlighted in cover letter: Background in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM); involving faculty in strategic planning; faculty recruitment; inventor and entrepreneur; ability to build research programs; private and public sector fundraising; regional economic development ties; understanding of mid-tier collegiate athletics; developing international programs; taking active role in student life issues.

Family: Not available.

Michael V. Martin

Age: 67

Position: Chancellor of Colorado State University System.

Career highlights: Colorado system chancellor, 2012-present; Louisiana State University chancellor, 2008-2012; New Mexico State University president, 2004-2008; University of Florida vice president for agriculture and natural resources, 1998-2004.

Degrees: University of Minnesota Ph.D. in applied economics, 1977; Mankato State College (now Minnesota State University) master's degree in economics, 1971; Mankato State bachelor's in business/economics, 1969.

Why he wants the job: "Currently I serve as a system chancellor, an important and rewarding job. However, I have discovered that I very much miss the daily excitement of being on campus. … Most certainly, FSU is an institution and a campus with great appeal."

Skills highlighted in cover letter: Served as senior administrator at two top research universities; experience at virtually every level of higher education from professor to system chancellor; experience in intercollegiate athletics.

Family: Wife Jan, two adult children.

John E. Thrasher

Age: 70

Position: Florida state senator.

Career highlights: State Senate, 2009-present; co-chairman of Gov. Rick Scott's re-election campaign; Southern Strategy Group lobbying firm partner, 2001-2009; chairman of FSU board of trustees, 2001-2005; Florida House of Representatives, 1992-2000 (speaker, 1998-2000). Military service: U.S. Army, 1966-1970.

Degrees: Florida State University law degree, 1972; FSU bachelor's degree in business, 1965.

Why he wants the job: "My desire to put my name forward as a candidate is driven by a deep-seated confidence that I can lead Florida State University through the next critical steps on its way to national prominence."

Skills highlighted in cover letter: Fundraising ability, political experience, years of advocating for FSU, legislative connections, strategic planning.

Family: Wife Jean, three adult children, eight grandchildren.

Michele G. Wheatly

Age: 58

Position: Former provost of West Virginia University.

Career highlights: WVU provost and vice president of academic affairs, 2009-2014; Wright State University (Ohio) dean of College of Science and Math, 2002-2009; Wright State chair of department of biological sciences, 1994-2002; University of Florida professor of zoology, 1984-1994.

Degrees: University of Calgary (Alberta) postdoctoral fellowship, 1980-1983; Birmingham University (United Kingdom) Ph.D. in comparative physiology, 1980; Birmingham University bachelor's in biological science, 1977.

Why she wants the job: "My strengths fit your needs, and my skills and character make me exceptionally qualified to provide the visionary and entrepreneurial leadership that will propel FSU into the ranks of the 'Top 25' public universities in the country."

Skills highlighted in cover letter: Experience in science, technology, engineering and math education; speaker on various higher education issues; created academic support programs; inspirational and innovative leader who can motivate faculty; ability to diversify revenue streams at research university; commitment to diversity; ability to create regional partnerships; ability to connect with public- and private-sector donors; experience with Division 1 athletic program.

Family: Husband Stanley Smith III, three children.

Contact Tia Mitchell at (850) 224-7263 or tmitchell@tampabay.com. Follow @tbtia.