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Interim provost makes bid for USF post

Renu Khator has worked at the University of South Florida for more than 18 years.

TAMPA - Renu Khator enjoys being the interim provost at the University of South Florida and told a search committee Thursday she would like to make the job permanent.

"I feel even more positive about USF today than I did 19 years ago, 10 years ago or five years ago," Khator said during an interview for the provost position. "I'm here because when I see the glass half empty, I don't dwell on it. I see it as an opportunity."

Along those lines, a committee member asked how she would boost USF's research reputation without alienating other areas of the university.

Khator said each department has to set a goal. For some, it would be moving up in national rankings. For others, it would be creating a new degree program.

"Then you try to see how we can help all of them get to the second level," Khator said.

Albert Hine, who asked the question, liked the answer.

"You can't ignore people, but you have to let them know the university has strategies," said Hine, a professor and associate dean of research.

Khator, 48, is one of four finalists for the provost job and the only inside candidate. She has been at USF more than 18 years, climbing the ranks from professor to the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences in 2002.

She was appointed interim provost in July, replacing David Stamps, who stepped down for health reasons.

As an insider, Khator was asked more specific questions than the other finalists.

A committee member asked about USF's rapid enrollment growth compared to budget growth, which has been considerably slower.

You have to manage enrollment, Khator said. "If you don't have your data and your numbers, you're going to lose out."

Khator also talked about focusing the university's energy. She likened the task to when she takes friends or colleagues canoeing. She finds it amusing when married couples can't get moving in the right direction.

It's only when they start working together, Khator said, that they can move smoothly enough to admire the scenery. "That's what we need," she said.

Khator will continue interviewing today. The last candidate will interview Tuesday and Wednesday.

The search committee will then send a report to USF president Judy Genshaft, who could make a choice within a few weeks.