Carleton College names new president

NORTHFIELD (AP) -- Carleton College named Robert A. Oden Jr., the president of Kenyon College, as its next president Friday.

Oden will take over July 1. He succeeds the retiring Stephen R. Lewis Jr.

Oden's academic work has focused on biblical literature, the ancient Near East and comparative religions. He is also the author of a forthcoming book on the history of biblical scholarship.

"My chief responsibility at Carleton will be helping to assemble talented students, staff, and faculty, and then setting them free," Oden said.