Presidential Search Announcement:

Campus is abuzz with chatter regarding VCU presidential search nominee Michael Rao.

According to the Richmond-Times Dispatch, unnamed sources are reporting Central Michigan University’s President Michael Rao is being introduced on campus as the next president of VCU. Following approval from the Board of Visitors this evening, Rao will succeed Eugene P. Trani, who has served as president since 1990, when he steps down on June 30.

A Board of Visitors closed session is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Friday at 101 N. Harrison St. with an announcement regarding the presidential search set for 6:45. Rao will likely be named during this time.

Rao began his term as president of CMU in 2000 after serving at Montana State University Northern as chancellor.

CMU ranks fourth largest among Michigan public universities with a population of 27,000-close to VCU’s 32,000.

Originally from Florida, Rao earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of South Florida and his doctorate from the University of Florida.

Rao’s wife, Monica, works as university outreach liaison at CMU and is a graphic designer and professional watercolorist, according to the university’s Web site.

The Raos have two sons, Miguel, 9, and Aiden, born May 25. – Roberto Curtis