Houshmand takes over daily operations of the university

Provost Dr. Ali Houshmand is now taking over more day-to-day duties at the university, formerly handled by outgoing president Dr. Donald Farish.

The Board of Trustees announced on Jan. 20 that Houshmand is Interim President as of June 30, the last day of Farish’s revised contract.

Farish will continue presidential duties that are specified by the BOT, but Houshmand is taking care of duties such as next year’s budget.

“Farish is still president, he has roles that are assigned by the BOT. I won’t get into specifics, but the provost is handling the day-to-day operations,” said Joe Cardona, Director of Media and Public Relations.

On Tuesday, Houshmand announced to the faculty through an e-mail that he expects a smooth transition and plans to focus on budget planning.

“We must make what some may consider to be dramatic changes—and quickly. If we are to achieve even half of our potential, we must take a fresh look at how to continue to improve and expand our academic offerings. We must not wait for the state to provide more funding, but instead we must become even more self-sufficient. Most importantly, we must all come together for the betterment of the institution,” Houshmand said in the e-mail.

Cardona said that he was unaware whether Houshmand would be receiving a salary increase. Currently, the provost is paid $317, 205 annually.

The BOT bought out Farish’s contract for $600,000 over two years, including health benefits. His former contract ran until June 30, 2012.
As president, Farish was paid $300,000 annually in addition to receiving housing and other amenities provided by the university. In 2002, Rowan purchased Farish’s home in Woodbury for $685,000, and spent an additional $701,000 renovating it through private donations, according to a 2002 Whit article.

Cardona said there will be an interim provost named once Houshmand takes presidential duties full time, and that most likely it will be through shifting job titles within the university.

In the e-mail to faculty, Houshmand said, “In the coming weeks, I will announce several initiatives to move the University forward, beginning with developing next year’s budget.  Please watch for these announcements and be prepared to join your colleagues and me to develop the best possible future for Rowan University.”