The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Rapid City has begun its search for a new president, but an announcement isn’t expected until next spring.

South Dakota Board of Regents director Jack Warner says that’s because the regents are allowing plenty of time for a process that uses broad base input from the campus and surrounding community. Warner says the goal is to hire a leader with some prominence and experience.

The hiring committee is made up of 19 people, including students and faculty, community members, regents and two professional consultants. It’s being assisted by the executive search firm of Witt/Kieffer and consultants Dr. Kate Haley and Mr. Brian Bloomfield

Duane Hrncir (HURN’-sur) has been serving as acting president since President Robert Wharton died in September. The new president’s expected start date is July 1.