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ST. PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota State Colleges and Universities on Wednesday selected a local over Utah's higher education chief to be their new chancellor and to lead 32 state universities and community and technical colleges in Minnesota.
Utah's Commissioner of Higher Education William Sederburg was a finalist for the position, but in the end, the majority of MNSCU's board of trustees voted for University of Minnesota political science professor Steven Rosenstone.
Rosenstone was well-received for his visionary nature and love of education expressed throughout the seven-month search for a new chancellor. While trustees praised Sederburg for his extensive experience and leadership abilities, they wanted "a creative, strategic thinker," said MNSCU trustee Christine Rice, who served on the organization's search committee.
Rice said the time was ripe for an innovator. Others believed the risk associated with appointing Rosenstone was worthwhile in such a transformative time.
"I believe Rosenstone is the appropriate risk-taker, leader and innovator for this system," said board Chairman Scott Thiss, who also noted that "both candidates were superb."
Rosenstone will begin his new job Aug. 1 but will work with current Chancellor James H. McCormick, who is retiring this summer after serving 10 years as chancellor.
E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com
