Dr. McDavis to assume position as AGB Search managing principal March 1, 2017.

Washington, D.C. – December 9, 2016 – Dr. Rod McDavis, president of Ohio University, has been selected as the new managing principal for AGB Search, the only executive search firm that specializes in providing search, interim search, compensation evaluation and leadership transition assistance to public and private higher education institutions.

In announcing the selection, Joyce Roche, chair of the AGB Search board of directors and vice chair of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) board of directors, said Dr. McDavis was a standout candidate from early on in the process. “We knew Rod had stellar qualifications and numerous impressive accomplishments," she said. “But what differentiated him were his energy and passion. He expressed a willingness to take risks and explore new territory that will take AGB Search to the next level. And he truly wants to make a difference for students.”

Dr. McDavis has served in a variety of academic and administrative roles in higher education, including his current position as president of Ohio University. As president, Dr. McDavis has overseen several initiatives leading to expansion, increased funding and more diverse enrollment.

“The AGB brand is esteemed for its impactful work within the higher education sector, including board development, institutional operations and executive search,” Dr. McDavis stated. “It is exciting to be part of an organization with these unique offerings focused solely on higher education. I look forward to leading AGB Search and collaborating with my colleagues across the industry to find the best leaders, prepare future talent, and promote the value of higher education.”

Dr. McDavis’ priorities for AGB Search include cultivating future higher education leaders so candidate pools are deep and diverse, ensuring the firm’s strategic goals align with forthcoming changes in the sector, recruiting additional search consultants to serve more institutions, and elevating its profile within the industry.

“Under the leadership of managing principal Dr. Jamie Ferrare, AGB Search, in a very short time, has built a strong reputation as one of the most respected firms in higher education search,” noted Rick Legon, president of AGB. “As we move into the next phase of AGB Search’s growth, I’m confident Rod’s entrepreneurism and visionary ideas for the firm will position us to achieve even greater success."

Dr. Ferrare has been with the firm for six years, having grown it to seven Washington, D.C.-based staff, 10 research associates, and 35 search consultants. In keeping with AGB Search’s commitment to long-term success, Ferrare will continue to serve as an advisor to the firm to ensure a smooth transition.

AGB Search, based in Washington, D.C., is the only executive search firm that specializes in all aspects of the higher education employment continuum. The firm identifies and vets exceptional candidates, helping to build the most effective, diverse leadership teams possible. Founded by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges in 2010, AGB Search has an unparalleled commitment to professionalism and quality. With a dedication to service and deep roots in the industry, AGB Search discovers what makes each institution unique and presents the best candidates for each position. www.agbsearch.com.

Washington, D.C. - September 1, 2016 - AGB Search is pleased to announce that Dr. Jennifer L. Braaten, former president of Ferrum College, and Dr. Kevin P. Reilly, former president of the University of Wisconsin System, will be joining our staff as AGB search consultants. In this role, Dr. Braaten and Dr. Reilly bring extensive networks and invaluable experience to our clients. 

Dr. Braaten has just completed a 14-year tenure as president of Ferrum College, the first woman to serve as president of the southwest Virginia institution. Under her leadership, the college improved numerous academic programs, added athletic teams, and increased both enrollment and the endowment. She was the architect of the most comprehensive small campus “makeover” in the region, helping to create new modular-built residence halls, an athletic complex, and major science laboratory additions. 

Prior to becoming president of Ferrum, Dr. Braaten served as chair of the board of trustees of the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools (SACS), the Educational & Institutional Insurance Administrators, Inc. (EIIA), the USA South Athletic Conference, and The Council of Independent Colleges (CIC). 

Dr. Kevin P. Reilly served as president of the University of Wisconsin System from 2004 to 2013, during which time he hired, oriented, and evaluated 31 chancellors and interim chancellors. Under his leadership, system-wide enrollment grew to an all-time high of 182,000 students and sponsored research expanded to over $1 billion annually. Both the number of transfer students and degrees awarded rose by 13%, and privately donated need-based student aid increased 124%.

Prior to his presidency, Dr. Reilly served as the president of the National Association of System Heads (NASH) and on the steering committee for four Wisconsin statewide economic summits.  He has been a member and officer of the board of directors of the American Council on Education (ACE), as well as a presidential advisor for leadership, and chair of the ACE Commission on Adult Learning and Educational Credentials.

AGB Search, an affiliate of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges, is a leading higher education executive search firm that provides search, interim search, and executive compensation services to colleges, universities, higher education systems, institutionally related foundations, and higher education associations.

AGB Search, based in Washington, D.C., is the only executive search firm that specializes in all aspects of the higher education employment continuum. The firm identifies and vets exceptional candidates, helping to build the most effective, diverse leadership teams possible. Founded by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges in 2010, AGB Search has an unparalleled commitment to professionalism and quality. With a dedication to service and deep roots in the industry, AGB Search discovers what makes each institution unique and presents the best candidates for each position. www.agbsearch.com.