Rough year at SOU could hurt Cullinan’s new job prospect

Ashland, Ore. — It was on Tuesday that NBC5 News first reported that Southern Oregon University President Dr. Mary Cullinan is one of three finalists for the presidency at Youngstown State University in Ohio.

However it looks like the rough year at SOU, which included a confidence vote, contract bargaining and cuts to programs and staff in a move to save money, could hurt Cullinan’s new job prospect.

According to NBC affiliate WFMJ in Ohio, Dr. Sudershan Garg the Chair of the Board of Trustees at Youngstown State University said the search committee had no idea that Cullinan was involved in a vote of confidence at SOU.

Her two top administrators, the provost and vice president of finance and administration ended up receiving a vote of no confidence back in March resulting in faculty recently requesting their removal.

WFMJ brought that information to Garg.

“We were not aware of it. How did you find out I definitely have a lot of questions,” he said.

According to WFMJ, Garg said Cullinan will not be removed from consideration but if the search committee determines the situation is serious enough, it could cost her a chance at the job.

We’re told YSU’s search committee is expected to contact Cullinan directly.

Cullinan is expected to visit the YSU campus in Ohio next week.

Stay with NBC 5 News for updates.

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