Gadsden state presidential search interviews

Alabama Community College System Chancellor Mark Heinrich conducted interviews in Gadsden Wednesday with the five finalists for the job of Gadsden State Community College president: Hank Dunn of Weaverville, N.C.; Paul Gasparro of Beachwood, Ohio; Valerie Richardson of Anniston; Steve Rook of Mena, Ark.; and William Rule of Acworth, Ga.  Heinrich posed 11 questions to each candidate, and asked a few follow-up questions relating to being a community college president, while an audience of 75 to 100 people watched and listened. The questions covered a variety of topics, including responding to political pressure and working within the community college system, budget priorities, how the college can be improved, each candidate's leadership style, the school's role in improving the workforce and economic development and why each is interested in the Gadsden State position. The audience included instructors, administrative personnel, students, support staff and the public. Gadsden Mayor Sherman Guyton attended the morning session.  Heinrich said they are hoping to name a new president early next month.