At an open faculty forum this afternoon, Timothy J. Chandler, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost candidate, said his experience at Kent State is what sets him apart from other candidates.

“This is my university,” he said. “I’m committed to this institution.”

Chandler, dean of the College of the Arts, was questioned by more than 50 faculty members at the Kiva in the search for the next provost. As chief academic officer, the provost is responsible for academics across all campuses.

When questioned about the provost’s role in ensuring student retention, Chandler said he would focus on bringing the university’s best faculty to freshmen classes to give students a richer experience.

“I think a provost can influence what students are asked to learn and what people we put in front of them to help them learn,” he said.

Chandler will be at an open forum with undergraduate students at 2 p.m. tomorrow in Room 310 of the Student Center and with graduate students at 2:30 p.m. in Room 306 of the Student Center.

Contact academic affairs reporter Kevin Kolus at [email protected].