CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Fairmont State University's presidential search team is recommending the interim leader keep the job permanently.
Board of Governors Chairman Ron Tucker announced Thursday that Maria C. Rose is now president-elect.
The other finalist, Timothy O'Rourke of Virginia Wesleyan College in Norfolk, Va., visited the campus earlier this week.
Tucker says Rose has been a calming presence and has helped rebuild relationships that ensure Fairmont is ready for its upcoming re-accreditation visit by the Higher Learning Commission.
The board will meet May 3 to authorize contract negotiations, after the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission votes on the appointment.
Rose has been interim president since April 2011. Before that, she was provost and vice president for academic affairs.
Former President Thomas Krepel resigned after less than two years in the position.