By Rose Krzton-Presson
Murray, KY – Southern Illinois University Carbondale recently closed the application period for a new Provost despite recent Illinois budget cuts. The university is experiencing a soft hiring freeze and eliminating posts evaluated as unnecessary, but Media Relations Officer Rod Sievers doesn't expect budget cuts to affect the search for a new provost. Sievers says critical positions will be filled including the Provost position. The university's search committee now reviews applications for the post to select a finalist. Currently Vice Chancellor Don Rice is serving as Interim Provost. The university expects to fill the position by December.