Executive-search consultants are being hired to help fill posts in higher education from college presidents to development positions and deanships. Consultants perform a variety of services, from identifying and screening candidates to arranging flight schedules for campus visits. (MLW)

Oakland Community College allowed a "Chronicle" reporter to watch the college president selection process. Their experiences are described, and some lessons they learned are offered: the process is imperfect, consultants shape the process heavily, and "chemistry" makes the ultimate difference among the finalists. (MLW)