A man vying for the University of Alaska's top leadership role says he is expecting academic programs to become stronger but fewer in the next decade.
The Juneau Empire reports Jim Johnsen is the university's first choice to replace retiring President Pat Gamble in one of the state's highest-paying government jobs.
State data shows Gamble made $330,000 in 2014.
Johnsen started his tour of the state in Juneau and spoke with a small group of lawmakers, leaders and community members Thursday night.
He said consolidating programs among the three campuses will strengthen what the university offers and save money by avoiding redundancies.
Johnsen is among four finalists out of 24 applicants for the job.
The Board of Regents is expected to make a decision by the week of July 28.