Provost withdraws from FIU presidential search to lead Cleveland State University


Berkman came to FIU in 1997 as dean of the College of Health and Urban Affairs. In 2005, he replaced Mark Rosenberg as FIU's provost.

Berkman came to FIU in 1997 as dean of the College of Health and Urban Affairs. In 2005, he replaced Mark Rosenberg as FIU's provost.

FIU Provost Ronald Berkman released the following statement regarding the FIU presidential search and Cleveland State University:

 “As the Florida International University (FIU) presidential search enters its final phase, I would first like to acknowledge the immense support that I have received as a candidate from all of the deans and vice presidents at FIU and from several other constituencies, including the board of trustees. Thus, as a viable candidate for the FIU presidency and the Cleveland State University (CSU) presidency, I had to decide a course of action for myself. After considerable thought and discussion with my family, I have decided to withdraw from the FIU search. Part of what influenced me was my own personal analysis of my skills, background, and previous experience in higher education. Therefore, of these two fine institutions, I feel at this time that I can make a greater contribution to the development of the mission of CSU.  While FIU is a wonderful university, I believe I can make a larger difference at CSU, since I will be bringing with me fresh ideas, a new perspective and a wealth of relevant experience.

CSU is a public institution of higher education in an urban environment that is dedicated to offering an engaged learning experience. I am excited by the State of Ohio’s commitment to promote the University’s role in the economic development of the State. As a premier urban institution, CSU will play an expanding role in developing the human capital needed to energize the city, region and state. And, since the Board of Trustees and their Chair Mr. Ronald E. Weinberg have sought me out and now have offered me the unique opportunity to lead such a fine institution, I am likewise delighted to be able to accept their invitation.”

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