FAIRMONT, W.Va. -- An academic administrator from Virginia and the current interim president at Fairmont State University are the finalists to become next permanent leader of the north-central West Virginia school.

Board of Governors Chairman Ron Tucker said Monday the search committee was thrilled with the quality of the three finalists it selected. One, however, recently withdrew from consideration.

Competing now are Timothy O'Rourke, the vice president for academic affairs at Virginia Wesleyan College in Norfolk, Va., and Fairmont's interim president, Maria Rose.

Rose has been interim leader since April 15, 2011.

Former President Thomas Krepel resigned after less than two years in the position.

The finalists' cover letters and resumes are posted online for review. Tucker says campus visits are being arranged, and details will be announced soon.