Tom Jevas, the first finalist for the open position of Executive Director of Health Services, took part in an open forum at the Mass Media and Technology Hall Auditorium at 10 a.m. Tuesday.

Jevas, who has been in the health care industry for more than 30 years, spoke briefly about his experience in the field and took questions from an audience of more than 25 WKU faculty and staff members.

Most recently, Jevas was employed as an administrator of diagnostic services with Central Ohio Primary Care Physicians Inc., based in Columbus, Ohio, where he was responsible for developing and implementing complementary diagnostic services. He held the position for 11 years before being let go when the company decided to reduce administrative costs. But Jevas said he’s still on good terms with the practice and received its recommendation.

Faculty in attendance at the forum asked Jevas about his qualifications, his interest in the college health care system, the difference in the environment setting and staff management on a college campus.

Jevas said he is interested in working at WKU because it’s a worthy cause, new environment and he enjoys a challenge. He also added that he’s looking for stability and is loyal to his employer.

As for the difference in managing a small staff versus a larger staff, Jevas said it’s easier to manage a smaller staff, but over the years he’s learned to do the same with a larger staff and function as a team.

Jevas’ response to the difference between his previous work environment and the college environment is the common denominator, which are patients.

“The whole focus is the patient or customer,” he said. “They’re the whole purpose. You don’t exist without them.”

The second candidate, Vicky Rosa, will take place in a similar open forum from 10–11 a.m. Wednesday in the MMTH Auditorium.