Academic Search

Firm Overview

Academic Search was founded in 1976 on the principle that higher education leaders would have unparalleled insight, knowledge, and wisdom to lend to institutions as they sought new leaders. After 50 years, we remain dedicated to supporting colleges and universities in identifying, recruiting, and developing leaders for lasting institutional strength. Our work is grounded in the understanding that effective leadership emerges through connection—connecting experienced leaders with institutions, connecting varied perspectives within search processes, and connecting institutional missions with the right leadership vision. For five decades, we have served as a steady presence in higher education, fostering relationships that strengthen both individual leaders and the institutions they serve.

Off-Limits Policy

1 year

Average Time to Completion on Assignment

4.5 months

News Briefings

Academic Search Recruits President for Henry Ford College

Academic Search has placed David M. Knezek as the seventh president of Henry Ford College. Shirley Robinson Pippins and Richard Cummins led the assignment. Mr. Knezek, currently serving as chief operating officer of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and as an elected Wayne County commissioner, will assume the presidency later this year, succeeding interim president Dr. Lori...

Academic Search Recruits 22nd President for Muskingum University

Following a comprehensive national search, education-focused executive recruitment firm Academic Search has recruited Flavius Lilly as the 22nd president of Muskingum University in New Concord, OH. Susan Hasseler will retire in June 2026, after a decade of leadership. The search was led by senior consultants Sharon D. Herzberger and Dan DiBiasio, along with Carly Place, associate consultant. “Dr. Lilly is the right leader for...

Academic Search Tapped by the University of Saint Mary to Find 10th President

Education-focused executive recruiter Academic Search has been retained by the University of Saint Mary (USM), in Leavenworth, KS, to lead a national search for its 10th president. Senior consultants Suzanne Mellon and Disa Mason are leading the assignment. The university is seeking a dynamic, mission-focused, and visionary leader who will build upon the achievements of the past...

Academic Search Retained by Henry Ford College to Find Next President

Education-focused executive recruitment firm Academic Search has been tapped by Henry Ford College (HFC) to lead in its search for a new president. Russ Kavalhuna left the school last year to become the president of Western Michigan University. Shirley Robinson Pippins and Richard Cummins are leading the assignment. Candidates will have a career that reflects the following...

Muskingum University Taps Academic Search to Help Find New President

Education-focused executive recruitment firm Academic Search has been selected by Muskingum University in New Concord, OH, to lead in its search for its 22nd president. Current president Susan Hasseler will retire in June 2026, after a decade of leadership. The search is being led by senior consultants Sharon D. Herzberger and Dan DiBiasio, along with Carly Place, associate consultant....

Academic Search at Closing Stages of President Search for Valparaiso University

Education-focused executive recruiter Academic Search was recently selected by Valparaiso University to lead in its search for a new president. President José Padilla will retire on December 31, 2025, at the conclusion of his contract. Senior consultants Pamela Balch, Mike Maxey, and search manager Penny Gibbons are leading the assignment. “Over the past month, the presidential search committee...