The first of four candidates for Kansas University’s liberal arts dean post told a public forum Monday that she would focus on the college’s changing concepts, communities and resources as dean.

Susan Carlson, associate provost for faculty advancement and diversity at Iowa State University, is the first of four candidates to visit KU in the coming weeks as the university’s search for a dean enters the final phases.

At ISU, she has played a role in revamping the promotion and tenure process, working on the campus’ budget and teaching in classes for more than 20 years.

Carlson also called for a focus on helping students find appropriate career paths among the many different majors available to them.

“It is the job of this college to ensure that a first-year experience stimulates students and encourages them to return as sophomores,” Carlson said.

She also acknowledged budget issues that are prevalent at KU as well as her campus.

“We should adapt our resources to our goals and not vice versa,” she said.

The other three candidates will be announced in the coming weeks.