http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060505/NEWS/605050357/1002/NEWS01

MSU price tag to find new chief: $160,000

University refuses to release names of 46 other candidates for post

State higher education leaders spent more than $160,000 to attract 47 candidates seeking to lead Mississippi State University.

But, responding to a public records request filed by The Clarion-Ledger, they will only release the name of Robert H. "Doc" Foglesong, the man who became the university's 18th president last month.

"Personnel records and applications for employment in the possession of a public body are exempt from the provisions of the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983," N. Van Gillespie, attorney for the university system, wrote in response to The Clarion-Ledger's request....

..."I understand Dr. Meredith's perspective, but I still fall on the side that says there just needs to be more openness," Powell said.

He suggested finalists be brought before a committee of university constituents - faculty, community members, alumni - for a more thorough review. "That might at least allow some feedback," Powell said....


...Higher education officials have said the process to replace Thames will be very similar, though minor changes could be made....