The list of candidates for executive director of the MSU Riley Center is down to three applicants according to Terry D. Cruse, administrative director and head of campus at Mississippi State University-Meridian.

Each of the three candidates has undergone Skype interviews and one, Daniel Barnard, associate dean of Cultural Affairs and director of Bailey Hall at Broward College in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, has visited the Riley Center. The names of the other two candidates have not been disclosed and no other onsite visits have been scheduled at this time, Cruse said.

Sixty-five applications were received for the post previously held by Dennis Sankovich, who retired at the end of March. Sankovich oversaw the creation of the MSU Riley Center and shepherded it through more than a decade of bringing top performing artists from around the world to the downtown Meridian venue.

Qualifications for the executive director’s position include a doctorate (preferred,) master’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; experience in community relations, arts integration and educational programming; experience working in an educational setting; and experience in securing substantial grant funding.

Additional knowledge, skills and abilities required include:

• Outstanding interactive skills and the ability to communicate and work effectively with a wide range of constituencies.

• Ability to network with agents and industry leaders in performing arts to schedule reputable shows.

• Ability to efficiently and effectively work in a fast-paced environment with multiple responsibilities.

• Ability to prioritize workload and foster a willingness to continuously learn and grow professionally to excel at one’s highest capacity.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills.

• Proven organizational ability and ability to make decisions as necessary to facilitate efficient operation.

• Knowledge of fiscal and human resources management.

Cruse said he has been pleased with the response of applicants to the executive director position, which was first posted on Jan. 16.

“We’ve conducted a nationwide search and have had several qualified candidates to apply,” he said.

No date has been set for when an executive director will be selected.

“The position is open until filled,” Cruse said.