Ex-UI Dean May Seek Presidency

Larry Branen, former dean of the College of Agriculture at the University of Idaho, has turned down a chance to be on the search team for a new school president.

That’s because he’s thinking about applying for the job left vacant the first of this month when Elisabeth Zinser left for the University of Kentucky.

Branen said he didn’t think his candidacy should surprise anyone. “I think I have the background, skills and experience to do it,” he said.

Branen started at the school 12 years ago as associate dean of agriculture, later becoming dean. In 1993, he returned to teaching and research in food science and toxicology.

He said that move was because of his disagreement with the way the university dealt with tenure and promotion. At the time, he said the university did not equally weigh the importance of research, teaching and outreach, putting too much emphasis on research.

Branen said he isn’t considering a bid for president out of spite. “I have a sincere interest in the University of Idaho and the state,” he said.

He said he’s waiting to see the job description to see if he meets qualifications. Branen will become chairman of the Faculty Council in September and would have had an automatic seat on the 25-member search committee.

The state Board of Education completed the search committee by naming Garry Esser, a grower from Moscow, as the final statewide representative. Board member Roy Mosman and former Idaho Sen. James McClure are co-chairmen.