Iowa State is searching for an interim director for the Margaret Sloss Women’s Center.

Celia Naylor-Ojurongbe, director of the Women’s Center since July 1993, will be leaving the position Monday, July 28.

“We want someone who is committed to women’s issues and can lead programs that Celia has created,” said Faye Whitaker, assistant provost for academic affairs. “We need someone to sustain the quality of her leadership.”

Naylor-Ojurongbe said she is planning to relocate to Albuquerque, N.M., where she will finish her doctoral dissertation in history from Duke University in Durham, N.C.

“I’ve made some progress here, but I need to dedicate my time to my dissertation now,” Naylor-Ojurongbe said.

The interim director of the Women’s Center is in charge of coordinating programs and celebrations for women and managing the center, which is located on central campus. The director will also manage the budget, staff and students.

“The director must be willing to work with students and staff to create coalitions so different groups can work together for a common goal,” she said.

Naylor-Ojurongbe said working directly with the dean of students and the assistant provost of academic affairs is an important aspect of the position.

“The dean of students and the assistant provost for academic affairs supervise the Women’s Center director,” Naylor-Ojurongbe said.

Naylor-Ojurongbe said she has enjoyed her time at ISU.

“It’s been a challenging experience,” she said. “One of the most satisfying moments is being involved with The September 29th Movement.”

Whitaker said the interim director position requires a master’s degree, an orientation to human services, education and/or administrative services; two years of related employment or experience focusing on interaction with students, faculty and staff; supervision of budget, staff and programs for students; a knowledge of women’s issues, oppression and social systems/social change literature and practices.

“The main requirement is a master’s degree,” Whitaker said.

Applications for the position should be taken to the ISU Provost’s Office by 5 p.m. on Monday, July 14.

Resumes and names and phone numbers of three references should be sent to Faye Whitaker, assistant provost, 107 Beardshear Hall, ISU, Ames, IA, 50011.

Whitaker said the turn-around time will be short because ISU would like to make an appointment with the interim before Naylor-Ojurongbe leaves.

The search for a permanent director will begin with a national search in the fall, Whitaker said.

“Hopefully the permanent position will be filled by the first of the year,” she said.

Further information regarding the search for a permanent director of the Women’s Center will be announced at a later date.