Search committees play a vital role in recruiting, evaluating, and recommending the most qualified candidates for employment by the University. Search committee members are often the first University employees that a candidate will meet. Each member has an opportunity to represent the University as a diverse and welcoming community while carrying out the search in accordance with University policies and procedures.
At any point in the process, the Office of Diversity and Equity (ODE) is available for consultation, to answer questions and discuss specific situations, and offer recommendations and search committee training. Please contact ODE’s Search Compliance Team at 860-486-2943, option 2 for any assistance you may need.
Composition of the Search Committee
The hiring manager may appoint either the search committee chair who is charged with selecting the committee members, or both the chair and the remaining members of the committee. The structure of search committees will vary among departments, offices, schools and colleges, depending upon the position to be filled. The composition of a search committee is key to a broad and inclusive search and the committee should:
- Include individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.
- Include individuals with knowledge of the substantive area and the technical expertise to effectively evaluate candidates’ qualifications.
- Represent a diverse cross section of the University population, including members with a demonstrated commitment to diversity.
- Include appropriate stakeholders such as peers of the new hire, supervisors, and those with similar positions.
Committee Membership
A search committee member cannot serve on a search committee when he/she is also an applicant for the position. In the event that a search committee member is well acquainted with or has a conflict of interest regarding an applicant, the member must:
- Notify the search chair and the committee of the nature of the relationship; and
- Recuse him/herself from the entire committee if unable to perform an objective and equitable review of all candidates; or
- Recuse him/herself from the evaluation and interview of only the known applicant, with the agreement of the chair and committee
Any questions regarding specific conflict situations should be directed to ODE for further guidance.