Sam Olens' Interviewing for KSU Presidency on Tuesday

KENNESAW, GA — On the same day that a protest was planned over the prospect of a Sam Olens' presidency at Kennesaw State, the University System of Georgia said Georgia's current attorney general should be considered for the post.

"I have asked the Board of Regents to consider Attorney General Sam Olens for the role of president of Kennesaw State University," Chancellor Hank Huckaby said in a message to KSU students and staff. "The Board of Regents’ Executive and Compensation Committee is planning to interview Mr. Olens [Tuesday] at our University System office."

A protest was set for noon on Monday against Olens' consideration for the position. Opponents are upset over Olens' past record on gay rights.

An online petition opposing an Olens' presidency has gathered 5,280 signatures closing in on its goal of 6,000 signees.

• See also: Protest on Monday Over Possible Sam Olens KSU Presidency

"Olens is known for waging legal battles against the LGBTQ community in Georgia, including LGBTQ students," the petition says. "Olens has previously mocked those who argued for marriage equality within the state, arguing that his view of so-called traditional marriage "was an accepted truth for almost everyone who ever lived, in any society in which marriage existed."Hiring Sam Olens as the new KSU President is one huge step backwards for the university."

Here is Huckaby's entire statement that was sent on Monday:

"Dear Kennesaw State University Community:

"In higher education and our own University System, we place extreme importance on openness and the responsibility we all share in serving each other. So, it is important you know I have asked the Board of Regents to consider Attorney General Sam Olens for the role of president of Kennesaw State University.

"There has been speculation about this for some time, and up until now, I have remained silent on the matter. Initially, I was planning to conduct a national search to find the next president of Kennesaw State. Yet, through sincere and earnest conversations with Mr. Olens, I now believe he should be considered at this time.

"The Board of Regents’ Executive and Compensation Committee is planning to interview Mr. Olens tomorrow at our University System office. While the interview itself will be conducted in executive session, I want you to know that Mr. Olens is being seriously considered for the role of president.

"Kennesaw State University has gone through more change over the past two years than most institutions experience over decades. You successfully navigated through a complex consolidation to create a world-class institution of higher education. This summer, you have thoughtfully endured significant changes in the leadership of your institution. Through all of this, you have remained steadfast in your commitment to Kennesaw State and to each other as an institution of higher learning and a true community.

"On behalf of the Board of Regents, I humbly thank you and respectfully ask that you continue with your work, your studies and your responsibilities. I could not have imagined that this much change would happen at KSU during my time as chancellor. However, I have always known Kennesaw State is a wonderful institution that offers students and the people of Georgia an incredible opportunity for all the good that comes with higher education."

Image: Georgia Attorney General