Karen Ilczuk wants the newest faculty members in the theater department to teach effectively, have a varied background and be genuinely happy to help students.

While she admits these are specific qualifications, Ilczuk, senior in accounting, will have the opportunity to voice these concerns while serving as a student member of a group interviewing candidates for two open positions in the theater department.

“The candidates usually teach a sample class, present their current research interests, and have an informal lunch with the students,” Ilczuk said. “They are given a tour of the theater facilities and meet with the director of theater, the chair of the music department, someone from the [Liberal Arts and Sciences] dean’s office and the search committee.”

Two positions are available in the department. Two candidates have already visited campus, and two are still planning visits, said Jane Cox, associate professor of music.

The open slots are for a theater generalist and an acting and directing position. The generalist will teach a variety of classes, including history, script analysis and directing. The latter position will be filled by a candidate whose main interest and experience is with acting and directing.

“We are looking for someone who can make a contribution to the university in a liberal arts environment. Someone who will connect with students, communicate well with the faculty and possibly stay and eventually become tenured,” Cox said.

The process of selection is fairly rigorous, said Sue Haug, associate professor and head of the music department.

Advertising for the position is essential in getting people interested after a description of requirements is compiled, Haug said. Once applications are in, a committee looks them over and chooses the top five applicants.

“After the dean gives his approval, we are allowed to bring in a certain number, or certain people, for interviews,” Cox said.

The process of interviewing is long, but interesting, Haug said.

“It is always good to meet people in person, rather than just on paper,” Haug said.

“I think you need to spend time with the candidates to see how that person interacts with students.”

Cox said student participation in the process is worthwhile.

“It gives an opportunity for students to communicate with the applicants,” she said. “They get to meet a lot of interesting people, and it gives everyone an opportunity to express an opinion.”

The students will be able to complete forms stating who their first choice is and why. Ilczuk said she is looking for a person with specific qualifications.