The list of candidates for president of Riverland Community College has been narrowed from five to four.

Michael Bequette, Terrence Leas, Charlotte Lee and Dennis Massey will be interviewed by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) Chancellor James McCormick, three members of the Board of Trustees and the chancellor's cabinet on May 5. McCormick will recommend to the board the next president from among the four candidates. Riverland has tentatively set May 22 as the date to announce the president to the public.

Last week, each candidate met with the interview committee for individual interviews. They then each conducted public forums, where members of the community could ask questions of the candidates. The audience filled out comment sheets with a recommendation as to whether or not that candidate's name should be forwarded to the chancellor's office.

Celeste Ruble, vice president of employee and public relations, said the board considered those recommendations, as well as other things, when selecting the four finalists.

Ruble said one of the qualities the board was looking for was someone who communicated well with students. She said they wanted someone who could "sit down and meet with students."

Other important qualities included experience with budget challenges, working with unions and fostering business relationships in town.

The chancellor's office had requested three to five candidates' names be forwarded. Ruble said the committee only eliminated one name because they "felt strongly that these were solid candidates for the position."

Matt Merritt can be reached at 434-2214 or by email at matt.merritt@austindailyherald.com