With the departure of Nancy "Rusty" Barcelo last year to the University of Michigan, the administrative position of vice president and vice provost of minority affairs and diversity has yet to be permanently filled.

While in the process of finding a candidate to fill the position permanently, the administration has filled the office with interim Sheila Edwards Lange. Now, the UW has narrowed the field down to two final candidates: John Baugh and Lange.

As the appointed advisory committee moves closer to their final suggestion, each of the two candidates will hold their own forums and presentations, which are open to the general public.

Baugh's presentation will be held this afternoon at 3:30 p.m. in the HUB room 209A. Baugh will make a presentation, which will be followed by a question and answer session, and an open reception in the HUB room 200C.

"[Baugh] is an outstanding scholar," said Robert Crutchfield, sociology professor and member of the advisory committee. "He's a person with excellent vision and a very accomplished track record, both academically and intellectually."

Baugh is the Margaret Bush Wilson Professor in Arts and Sciences, as well as the director of African and African American Studies at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Crutchfield praised Baugh's qualifications as well as Lange's, and noted that the decision will not be an easy one.

"This is an important position at the University in terms of fostering diversity, [as far as] students, faculty and our programs are concerned," said Norm Arkans, director of media relations and communications. "It's a vital leadership position — the focal point of our diversity efforts, [although] diversity is something that we incorporate into all aspects of leadership."

Baugh was selected from a number of applicants, which was narrowed down further to a semi-final consideration round, followed by the current and final round. The advisory committee will make its suggestion for the final appointment after both candidates have spoken at the respective forums. This nomination will be presented to President Mark Emmert and Provost Phyllis Wise, who will make the final decision.

Arkans said he expects a decision to made by the end of this quarter.

Reach reporter Jeff Tripoli at news@thedaily.washington.edu.