Officials, alumni, and students from Iowa State University spoke at an open forum during the state Board of Regents meeting Wednesday about what they’d like to see in the next president of the university.

Current ISU President Gregory Geoffroy announced during a closed session at the regents’ March 23 meeting that he would step down as Iowa State’s 14th president no later than July 31, 2012.

"A new president must have a clear understanding of our mission as students," said outgoing ISU Student Government President Luke Rolling. "President Geoffroy protected the student experience; the next president should do the same."

Mike Owen, the head of the ISU Faculty Senate, said ISU officials would like to see a president who practices transparent communication and decision-making, is student-orientated, and also has an academic background.

Regent Michael Gartner challenged the background view and said he felt the presidential role calls for someone who can act as a "general executive."

The regents have accepted public input on the new president since April 5, said Regent President David Miles. They have received roughly 50 comments.

— by Ariana Witt