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SOU's new dean named finalist for PLU opening Gorne not sure if he'll accept job if it's offered BY ALEX BREITLER Southern Oregon University may soon have to take up the hunt -- again -- for a new dean of students. Ivan Gorne announced to the campus Friday that he has applied for the dean of students post at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash. Gorne is one of three finalists for the job. But even if he's offered the post, Gorne said he's not sure if he'll accept. "Even if it's offered, I have some real serious questions to answer in my mind because of the positive environment here," he said. PLU is a family affair for Gorne. He and his daughter are alumni, and his son is a freshman there. It's also near the Gornes' home, which hasn't yet been sold since he took the SOU job. "(PLU) has got a special place in our hearts and when that position became available it was very awkward for me," he said. "It just came at an inopportune time." Gorne said he checked with PLU before accepting the SOU job and was told that the post wouldn't open up for a couple of years. However, once Gorne had accepted the SOU position, it became available. He applied for the PLU job and found out over the holidays that he's a finalist. Joan Jackson, associate dean of students, said the reaction on campus is mixed. "I think many people have mixed feelings," she said. "I certainly support him, I only want what's best for him. "But of course, it's disappointing for us as well." Gorne was hired in April last year after an exhaustive two-year search to replace Steve Flynn, who retired in June 1997. A search committee narrowed down several pools of candidates only to see some of them back down due to SOU's lower-than-average salary offer. The university's salary range for the job is $10,000 to $20,000 below the average for comparable posts nationwide. The dean of students, since renamed vice president of student affairs, is in charge of all student-related issues on campus, like housing, food, clubs and activities and the student union. Grievances and disciplinary procedures are also included. Jackson served as acting dean of students during the last vacancy, but it's unclear who would take over if Gorne leaves. SOU should have some time to find a permanent replacement, however, since he wouldn't start at PLU until sometime this summer if hired. Matt Stillman, vice president of SOU's student government, said he would hate to see Gorne go but understands his predicament. "When I first heard about it I was kind of depressed because I really like Ivan -- I would be sorry to see him go," Stillman said. "On the other hand, I completely understand what he's going through." If he leaves, Gorne said it's not because of any problems with the university. "SOU is just a great place," he said. "The student affairs program is very comprehensive, the staff is wonderful. I couldn't be happier with how the college community has welcomed me." SOU President Stephen Reno was out of town at a meeting and could not be reached for comment. Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1999, Medford, Oregon USA