Mar 29, 2024  
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

University Organization



University History

The citizens of Joplin, who in the late 1930s asked the public school district to offer college classes, could not have envisioned the sprawling campus and multidiscipline curriculum that today is Missouri Southern State University. From that initial request came Joplin Junior College, founded in 1937 as part of the Joplin school system. Nine faculty members and 114 students began classes under the auspices of the Extension Division of the University of Missouri in the new high-school building.

In the spring of 1938, voters approved almost 5-to-1 a bond proposal that would assure the continuation of the junior college. During the next 25 years, Joplin Junior College established a national reputation for outstanding academic strength, a strong foundation for what was to come. By the mid-1960s, area citizens again recognized the need for expanded educational opportunities.

In 1964, the citizens voted in an 8-1 majority to create the Junior College District of Jasper County with a Board of Trustees to govern the newly named Jasper County Junior College. The following year, the Missouri General Assembly established a two-year senior college to be funded by the state. The district would continue to provide the freshman and sophomore years.

The area again responded with enthusiastic and generous support with the building of a new campus on the site of the Mission Hills Farm to house the growing college. Administration and faculty, working with other college educators around the state, began developing the new curriculum. In August 1967, students gathered for the first time on the new campus of Missouri Southern State College.

The dual funding arrangement with the state continued until 1977, when on July 1 the State of Missouri officially took on the responsibility of funding the entire college.

With growing global interdependence, it became clear that Missouri Southern must prepare its students to function successfully in the emerging global economy. So in June 1990, plans were announced to pursue the expansion of the college’s mission to incorporate an international emphasis in all its academic and special programs. In 1995, the Missouri General Assembly approved House Bill 442, directing the institution to “develop such academic support programs and public service activities it deems necessary and appropriate to establish international or global education as a distinctive theme of its mission.” Many new programs in international education that enrich and complement the existing programs are now in place.

On July 12, 2003, Missouri Governor Bob Holden officially signed Senate Bill 55, which renamed Missouri Southern State College as Missouri Southern State University-Joplin - Aug. 28 of that year marked the official date the name changed. The legislation was sponsored by Gary Nodler in the Senate and Bryan Stevenson in the House. Provisions of the legislation also allowed MSSU to begin offering cooperative master’s degree programs.

Today, Missouri Southern State University remains a proud member of the state’s higher education family while continuing to serve the region that is an integral part of its past.

Board of Governors

James B. Fleischaker 2017
Glenn M. McCumber 2018
Tracy Flanigan 2019
William Gipson 2017
Alison Hershewe 2020
Michael Franks 2021
Anita Oplotnik 2021
Carlos Haley 2022

Board of Trustees

Donald R. Patterson
Jerry E. Wells

Memberships

1.      AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) 

2.      American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) 

3.      American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) 

4.      American Dental Educators Association (ADEA) 

5.      Association of American Colleges & Universities (AAC&U) 

6.      Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) 

7.      Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (MACTE) 

8.      National League for Nursing (NLN) 

9.      Southwest Center for Educational Excellence (SWC) 

10.  Southwest Missouri Nursing Education Consortium 

11.  Teacher Education Council of State Colleges and Universities (TECSCU) 

Accreditations and Approvals

Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, Phone: 312.263.0456 Website: www.hlcommission.org

1.      Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) in Engineering Technology 

2.      Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) 

3.      Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) 

4.      Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) 

5.      Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) 

6.      Commission on Dental Accreditation, American Dental Association (CODA) 

7.      Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP) 

8.      Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) 

9.      Institute for Safety and Health Management (ISHM) “Approval Status” 

10.   Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) 

11.   Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (MO DESE) 

12.   Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Bureau 

13.   Missouri Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) 

14.   Missouri State Board of Nursing

15.   National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP)

16.   National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC) 

Information concerning accreditation, including copies of pertinent documents, may be obtained from the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost.

Faculty

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

(Date indicates first year of full-time MSSU service)

Nii Adote Abrahams
Professor, Economics 1999
Bachelor’s( B.Sc.) Agricultural Economics, University of Ghana
Master’s (M.S.)Resource Economics, University of Massachusetts
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Agricultural Economics , Pennsylvania State University

Anthony C. Adamopoulos

Professor, Psychology 2004
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Psychology, University of Kansas
Master’s (M.A.) Psychology, University of Kansas
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Experimental Psychology, University of Kansas

Charles Adams
Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice 2011
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Criminal Justice Administration, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Human Resource Development, Pittsburg State University

Jonathan Adongo
Assistant Professor, Economics 2013
Bachelor’s( B.A.) Economics & Public Administration, University of Botswana
Master’s (M.A.) Economics, University of Botswana
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Economics, Middle Tennessee State University

Amila Appuhamy
Assistant Professor, Mathematics 2013
Bachelor’s (B.S) Mathematics, University of Columbo-Sri Lanka
Master’s (M.A.) Mathematics, University of Toledo
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Mathematics, University of Toledo

Marsi E. Archer
Professor, Chemistry 1998
Interim Dean, School of Arts and Sciences
Bachelor’s (B.S.), James Madison University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Chemistry, Ohio State University

Bobbie  Augspurger
Assistant Professor, Teacher Education 2017
Bachelor’s (B.S.E) Secondary Education, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.Ed.) Elementary Education, Missouri State University
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Educational Administration, Advanced Principal and Superintendent, Lindenwood University  

Rabindra Bajracharya
Assistant Professor, Physics 2015
Bachelor’s (B.Sc). Physics, Tribhuvan University
Master’s (M.Sc.),Physics, Tribhuvan University 
Master’s (M.A.) Physics, Kent State University 
Master’s (M.S). Physics, University of Maine
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Physics, University of Maine

Alla Barry
Associate Professor, Biology 2011
Doctorate (M.D.) Internal Medicine & Cardiology, Northern State Medical University

Maggie Beachner
Assistant Professor, Teacher Education 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Human Environmental Sciences, University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
Master’s (M.Ed.) Secondary Education, Career & Technical Education, University of Arkansas-Fayetteville
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Curriculum & Instruction, University of Arkansas-Fayetteville

Matthew Beaver
Instructor, Teacher Education 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Secondary Education-Sociology & Political Science, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Educational Leadership, Pittsburg State University
 

Sheri L. Beeler
Professor, Kinesiology 1995
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.E.) Physical Education, University of Central Missouri
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Educational Leadership, Educational Administration, Saint Louis University

Christine Bentley
Associate Professor, Art 2013
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Art, Art History, Southern Illinois University
Master’s (M.A.) Art History, University of Notre Dame
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Art History, Indiana University-Bloomington

Megan L. Bever
Assistant Professor, History 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Purdue University
Master’s (M.A.) History, University of Alabama
Doctorate (Ph.D.) History, University of Alabama

Robert S. Black
Associate Professor, Library 1988
Serials/Reference Librarian
Bachelor’s (B.A.) History/Teacher Education, Millikin University
Master’s (M.L.S.) Library Science, Indiana University

Kelli Blanton
Assistant Professor, Nursing 2012
Bachelor’s (B.S.N) Nursing, Westminster College
Master’s (M.S.N./ED) Nursing Education, University of Phoenix

Teresa Boman
Assistant Professor, Biology 2013
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Biology, College of the Ozarks
Master’s (M.S.) Environmental Science, Arkansas State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Environmental Science, Arkansas State University

Jacob Boswell
Assistant Professor, Mathematics 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Mathematics, Arkansas Tech University
Master’s (M.S.) Mathematics, Missouri State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Mathematics, Purdue University

Barry E. Brown
Professor, English & Philosophy 1987
Bachelor’s (B.A.) English, Kalamazoo College
Master’s (M.A.) Philosophy, Columbia University
Master’s (M.A.) Philosophy, University of Rochester
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Philosophy, University of Rochester

Joey R. Brown
Professor, English & Philosophy 2000
Bachelor’s (B.A.) English, Cameron University
Master’s (M.A.) Creative Writing, University of Oklahoma
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Interdisciplinary Studies (Creative Writing, Professional Writing  20th Century American Literature), University of Oklahoma

Maria Bruggeman
Assistant Professor, Kinesiology 2010
Bachelor’s (B.S.)Elementary Education & Physical Education, University of North Dakota
Master’s (M.S.) Kinesiology, University of North Dakota

Ward H. Bryant
Associate Professor, Communication 1992
Chair, Department of Communication
Bachelor’s (B.S.J.) Broadcast Journalism, University of Kansas
Master’s (M.S.) Speech & Drama (Radio, Television & Film), University of Kansas

F. Burt Bucher
Associate Professor, Art 2005
Bachelor’s (B.F.A.) Printmaking, Eastern Kentucky University
Master’s (M.F.A.) Painting/Print, University of Cincinnati

Lezlie Cantrell
Associate Professor, Dental Hygiene 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Dental Hygiene, Northeast Louisiana University
Master’s (M.Ed.) Dental Hygiene, University of Missouri-Kansas City
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Education, Capella University

James J. Capeci
Associate Professor, Library 2002
Interim Library Director
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Southwest Missouri State University
Master’s (M.L.S.) Information Science & Learning Technology, University of Missouri-Columbia

Aaron Carmichael
Assistant Professor, International English 2013
Bachelor’s (B.B.L.) Biblical Literature, Ozark Christian College
Master’s (M.A.) Intercultural Studies & TESOL, Wheaton College

Paula Phillips Carson
Professor, Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs 2015
Bachelor’s (B.B.A.), Loyola University of the South
Master’s (M.B.A.), Millsaps College
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Business Administration (Management), Louisiana State University

Kathryn Charlton
Instructor, Nursing 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.N) Nursing, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A.) Business Administration (Accounting), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.N.) Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Missouri-Kansas City

Kisa Clark
Lecturer, Communication 2015
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Mass Communication, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.A.) Communication, University of Arkansas

Kara Coffman
Educator in Residence, Biology 2017
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Northern Illinois University
Master’s (M.S.) Biological Sciences-Human Anatomical Sciences, Northern Illinois University

AmyKay Cole
Professor, Psychology 2002
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Psychology, University of New Mexico
Master’s (M.A.) Clinical Psychology, Kent State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Clinical Psychology, Kent State University

K. Casey Cole
Professor, Psychology 1996
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Psychology, Shippensburg State University of Pennsylvania
Master’s (M.A.) Experimental Psychology, Kent State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Experimental Psychology, Kent State University

James D. Collins
Professor, Computer Information Science 1998
Bachelor’s (B.S.), St. Louis University
Master’s (M.S.) Computer Science, Southern Illinois University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Information Systems, Nova Southeastern University

Jean Coltharp
Assistant Professor, Mathematics 2014
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Mathematics, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.) Mathematics, Pittsburg State University

Deborah Combs
Associate Professor, Accounting 2017
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Accounting, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Accounting, Business Administration, Oklahoma City Universiter
Master’s (M.A.S.) Accounting, Strayer University 
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Business Administration-Accounting, Northcentral University 
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

S. Mark Comstock
Professor, Accounting 1993
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A.)Business Administration, Missouri Southern State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Accounting, University of Oklahoma
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Diplomate, American Board of Forensic Accounting (DABFA)

Shannon Connolly
Assistant Professor, Modern Language 2015
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Anthropology, Kansas State University
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Modern Languages, Kansas State University
Master’s (M.A.) French Language & Literature, University of Virginia
Doctorate (Ph.D.) French, University of Virginia

Kathrine Corum
Assistant Professor, Dental Hygiene 2014
Associate’s (A.S.)Dental Hygiene, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Health Science, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Dental Hygiene Education, Missouri Southern State University/University of Missouri-Kansas

Cheryl Cotter
Associate Professor, Music 2005
Bachelor’s (B.M.) Music, Clarinet, University of North Texas
Master’s (M.M.) Music, Clarinet Performance, University of North Texas
Doctorate (D.M.A.) Music, Clarinet Performance, University of North Texas

Matthew Cowdin
Assistant Professor and Director, Law Enforcement Academy 2008
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Criminal Justice Administration, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Criminal Justice Administration, Southeast Missouri University

Clara Jean Cozens
Associate Professor, Teacher Education 2005
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Elementary Education/Kindergarten, Arkansas Tech University
Master’s (M.Ed.)Elementary Education, Arkansas Tech University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Curriculum & Instruction, University of Arkansas

Nancy M. Crabtree
Associate Professor, Library 2003
Reference/Instruction Librarian
Bachelor’s (B.S.)Elementary Education, Syracuse University
Master’s (M.L.S.) Library & Information Science, University of South Carolina

Susan Craig
Associate Professor, Teacher Education 1993
Interim Chair, Teacher Education
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Guidance & Counseling/Secondary, Missouri State University
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Education (Educational Leadership), University of Missouri - Columbia

Bradley Creamer
Associate Professor, Biology 2011
Interim Department Chair, Biology and Environmental Health
Bachelor’s (B.S.)Animal Sciences, Washington State University
Master’s (M.S.), University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Cancer Research, University of Nebraska-Medical Center
Post-Doctoral Studies, Vanderbilt University
 

Andrea N. Cullers
Assistant Professor, Kinesiology 2013
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Human Environmental Science (Food & Human Nutrition), University of Arkansas
Master’s (M.S.) Dietetics & Nutrition, University of Kansas Medical Center
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Nutritional Biology (International & Human Nutrition), University of California, Davis

Carrie Curtis
Assistant Professor, Mathematics 2009
Bachelor’s (B.S.), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Mathematics, University of Missouri-Columbia

Charles N. Curtis
Professor, Mathematics 1992
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Mathematics, University of Washington
Master’s (M.S.) Mathematics, University of Washington
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Mathematics, University of Washington

John Davenport
Assistant Professor, Geography 2015
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Geography, University of Oklahoma
Master’s (M.A.) Geography, California State University Northridge 
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Geography, University of Kentucky 

Michelle Dawson
Assistant Professor, Marketing 2009
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A.) Business Administration (Management), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Missouri State University

Peggy Day
Assistant Professor, Teacher Education, 2011
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Education, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.A.) Communication, Pittsburg State University

Will Delehanty
Associate Professor, Political Science 2010
Bachelor’s (B.G.S.)General Studies/Political Science, University of Kansas
Master’s (M.A.) Political Science, University of Kansas
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Political Science, University of Kansas

James Donelson
Associate Professor, Chemistry 2010
Interim Chair, Chemical and Physical Sciences
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Chemistry & Microbiology, University of Arkansas
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Medical Chemistry & Molecular Pharmacy, Purdue University

Megan Douglas
Assistant Professor, Management 2010
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A.) Business Administration (Management), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (MAT) Business Education, Missouri State University
P.H.R. (Professional in Human Resources)

James (Stu) Dunlop
Professional-in-Residence, Marketing 2008
Bachelor’s (B.S.), Missouri University of Science and Technology
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Missouri State University

Ricardo J. Espinosa
Associate Professor, Music 2014
Bachelor’s (B.M.) Music, California State University
Master’s (M.M.) Music, University of California
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Musical Arts, University of California

Devon Estes
Assistant Professor, Art Graphics 2011
Bachelor’s (B.S.), Cornell College
Master’s (M.F.A.) Art & Design (Graphic Design), Iowa State University

Dustin Faulstick
Assistant Professor, English and Philosophy 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.), Franklin College
Master’s (M.T.S.) Theological Studies, Emory University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) English, Ohio University

Diana “Kay” Fauss
Assistant Professor, Nursing 2014
Diploma (DN), Missouri Baptist School of Nursing
Bachelor’s (BSN) Nursing, Central Methodist University
Master’s (MSN) Nursing, University of Missouri
Doctorate (DNP) Nursing (Practitioner), University of Missouri

William Fischer
Assistant Professor, History 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) History, Carleton College
Master’s (M.S.) Latin American History, University of Florida
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Latin American History, University of Florida

Michael D. Fletcher
Professor, Biology 1994
Director of Environmental Health
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Wildlife Consservation, Southwest Missouri State University
Master’s (M.S.) Environmental Science, University of Oklahoma
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Environmental Science, Oklahoma State University

 

Rubén Galve-Rivera
Assistant Professor, Foreign Languages 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Tourism Business Administration, Universidad de Sevilla
Master’s (M.A.) Romance Languages, Texas Tech University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Spanish (Teacher Preparation), Texas Tech University

Michael P. Garoutte
Professor, Chemistry 1997
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Chemistry, Missouri Southern State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Bioorganic Chemistry, University of Kansas

Amy Gates
Assistant Professor, English & Philosophy 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.) English, Truman State University
Master’s (M.A.) English, Truman State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) English Studies, University of Illinois at Chicago

Lynell Gilbert-Saunders
Associate Professor, Chemistry 2006
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Chemistry, Missouri Southern State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Chemistry, University of Missouri-Rolla

Carissa Gober
Assistant Professor, Teacher Education 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Spanish Education, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.) English as a Second Language, Pittsburg State University
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Educational Policy & Instructional Leadership, Lindenwood University

Alma Gonzales
Educator in Residence, Chemistry 2017
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Chemistry, University of the Phillippines
Master’s (M.S.) Chemistry, Mindanao State University, Clemson University, Bowling Green State University 

Katherine Gray
Visiting Assistant Professor, English & Philosophy 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Education, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.E.) Education (Secondary Education w/English Option), Southwest Missouri State University

Natalie C. Grecu
Assistant Professor, Communication 2015
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Communication, Purdue University
Master’s (M.A.) Communication, University of Colorado
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Communication, Washington State University

Frederick Green II
Assistant Professor, Music 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Music, Rollins College
Master’s (M.M.) Trumpet Performance/Music Education, University of Florida

Jill Greer
Associate Professor, Sociology, 2005
Bachelor’s (B.A.), University of Arkansas
Master’s (M.A.) Anthropology, University of Missouri - Columbia
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Anthropology, University of Missouri - Columbia
Postgraduate Studies, University of Arizona

Conrad E. Gubera
Professor, Sociology 1967
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Social Science, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.) Social Science, Pittsburg State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Sociology, Oklahoma State University
Post-Doctoral Studies, Columbia University/University of Chicago
Fellow with National Council on US-Arab Relations, Washington, DC
Fellow with East-West Center, University of Hawaii (Honolulu)
Fulbright-Hayes Scholar (Hungary & Poland)
Fulbright-Hayes Scholar (Egypt)

Mikhial Gunderman
Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Criminal Justice, Appalachian State University
Master’s, (M.S.) Criminal Justice & Criminology, Appalachian State University
Doctoral Candidate (Ph.D.) Criminal Justice & Criminology, University of Missouri - St. Louis

Holly Hackett
Assistant Professor, Psychology 2011
Department Chair, Psychology 
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Psychology, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.A.) Psychology, New Mexico State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Psychology, New Mexico State University

Lorinda Hackett
Associate Professor, Teacher Education 2006
Interm Dean, School of Education
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Social Studies/Geography, Northwest Missouri State University
Master’s (M.S.Ed.) Guidance and Counseling, Northwest Missouri State University
Specialist (Ed.S.)Community College & Higher Education, Pittsburg State University 

Whitney Hamm
Lecturer, Library 2017
Archivist/Librarian
Bachelor’s (B.A.)History, University of Arkansas
Master’s (M.I.L.) Library & Information Science, Kent State University

Patricia Hempsmyer
Assistant Professor, Nursing 2005
Bachelor’s (B.S.N.) Nursing, Wichita State University
Master’s (M.S.N.) Nursing, Wichita State University

Dennis L. Herr
Professor, Computer Information Science 1985
Bachelor’s (B.S.), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) General Administration, Pittsburg State University
Certified Data Processor (CDP)

Cherona Hicklin
Associate Professor, Teacher Education 2010
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Education, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Educational Leadership, Pittsburg State University
Specialist (Ed.S.) Educational Leadership, Southwest Baptist University
Doctorate (Ed.D) Educational Leadership, Southwest Baptist University

Robert Hilton
Assistant Professor, Management 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Business Administration, University of the Ozarks
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration (Management), University of Central Arkansas
Doctorate (D.B.A.) Business Administration (Management), Nova Southeastern University

Aladar Horvath
Assistant Professor, Mathematics 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Mathematics, Purdue University
Master’s (M.S.) Mathematics, Michigan State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Mathematics, Michigan State University

Sherman X. Hou
Professor, Modern Languages 1996
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Japanese, Donghua University
Master’s (M.A.) Japanese Linguistics, Beijing Foreign Language University
Master’s (M.A.), University of Hawaii at Manoa
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Computing Technology in Education, Nova Southeastern University

Michael Howarth
Associate Professor, English & Philosophy 2008
Director of Honors Program
Bachelor’s (B.A.) English (Secondary Education), James Madison University
Master’s (M.F.A.) Creative Writing, University of Alaska at Anchorage
Doctorate (Ph.D.) English Literature (Children’s Literature), University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Elke M. Howe
Professor, Engineering Technology 2001
Chair, Department of Engineering Technology
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.T.) Engineering Technology (Plastics Engineering), Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Pittsburg State University
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Education (Higher Education), University of Arkansas

Loreen R. Huffman
Professor, Psychology 1996
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Individual & Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University
Master’s (M.S.) Psychology, Rutgers University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Psychology, Rutgers University

William E. Huffman
Professor, Accounting 2000
Bachelor’s (B.B.A.) Business Administration, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.Acct.) Accountancy, Kansas State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Accounting, University of North Texas
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Mike Hulderman
Associate Professor, Criminal Justice 2013
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Criminal Justice Administration, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Criminal Justice, Northeastern State University
Specialist (Ed.S.) Community College/Higher Education, Pittsburg State University
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Occupational & Adult Education, Oklahoma State University

Vivian Jackson
Assistant Professor, Nursing 2011
Bachelor’s (B.S.N.) Nursing, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.N.) Nursing, University of Kansas

Anne M. Jaros
Professor, Theatre 1989
Bachelor’s (B.F.A.) Fine Arts, University of Illinois
Master’s (M.F.A.) Fine Arts, Northwestern University

Mary Ann Jennings
Assistant Professor, Social Work 2017
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Psychology & Corrections, Washburn University
Master’s (M.S.S.W.) Administration Planning & Research, University of Texas at Arlington
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Social Work, University of Kansas

Donna Johnson
Associate Professor, Biology 2006
Bachelor’s (B.S.), University of Missouri
Doctorate (D.V.M.) Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri

Kerry D. Johnson
Professor, Mathematics 1998
Chair, Department of Mathematics
Bachelor’s (B.S.), Arkansas Tech University
Master’s (M.S.) Mathematics, Oklahoma State University
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Education (Higher Education), Oklahoma State University

Mary Keithly
Assistant Professor, Chemistry 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Chemistry, University of Missouri-St. Louis
Doctorate (Ph.D.)Chemistry, Vanderbilt University

Kevin Keller
Instructor, International English 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Communications, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Spanish, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.A.) English (TESOL), Missouri State University

Peyton Kessler
Clinical Instructor, Nursing 2016
Associate’s (A.A.S.) Nursing, Labette Community College
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Vocational-Technical Education, Pittsburg State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.N.) Nursing, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.E.) Career & Technical Education, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.) Nursing, University of Arkansas
Doctorate (D.P.N.) Nursing Practice, Doctorate (D.P.N.) Nursing Practice, University of Arkansas

John Kilmer
Lecturer, Biology 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Unified Science w/Biology Endorsement & Secondary Education, College of the Ozarks
Master’s (M.S.) Biology, Arkansas State University

Mary Kilmer
Assistant Professor, Environmental Health 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Biology, College of the Ozarks
Master’s (M.A.) Biology, University of Missouri-Columbia
Master’s (M.S.) Environmental Science, Arkansas State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Environmental Science, Arkansas State University

James E. Kilpatrick, Jr.
Professor, Modern Languages 2004
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Education (Spanish Ed/K-12), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.A.) Spanish Literature, University of Arkansas
Doctorate (Ph.D.E.) Foreign Language/TESOL-Curriculum & Instruction, University of Kansas

Hyunjung Kim
Assistant Professor, Communication 2013
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Journalism, Seoul Women’s University
Master’s (M.A.) Integrated Marketing Communication, Florida State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Communication, SUNY Buffalo

Karen Kostan
Associate Professor, Psychology 2008
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Psychology, Philosophy, Zoology, University of Wisconsin
Master’s (M.S.) Animal Behavior, University of California-Davis
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Animal Behavior, University of California-Davis

William A. Kumbier
Professor, English & Philosophy 1989
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Education, Michigan State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Comparative Literature, State University of New York at Buffalo

Richard A. Laird
Professor, Mathematics 2000
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Education, Emporia State University
Master’s (M.S.) Mathematics, Emporia State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Mathematics, Kansas State University

Kelly B. Larson
Associate Professor, Communication 1999
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Communication Business, North Dakota State University
Master’s (M.A.) Communication, North Dakota State University
Doctoratal Candidate (Ph.D.) Communication/Education (ABD), University of Missouri-Columbia

Grant Lathrom
Associate Professor, Mathematics 2006
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Mathematics & Physics, Missouri State University
Master’s (M.S.) Mathematics, Missouri State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Mathematics, Missouri University of Science & Technology

Edward (Ted) Lee
Associate Professor, Emergency Medical Services Department 2017
EMS Certificate, 
Associate’s (A.A.) Emergency Medical Science, Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Health Science/EMS Management, George Washington University
Master’s (M.S.E.) Education/Teaching & Learning, Liberty University
Specialist (Ed.S.) Education Specialist, Liberty University

Crystal R. Lemmons
Professor, Biology 2001
Doctorate (D.V.M.), University of Missouri-Columbia

Hong Li
Instructor, Library 2012
Technical Services Librarian
Bachelor’s (B.A.), Lanzhou University
Master’s (M.Ed.) English Education, University of Missouri-Columbia
Master’s (M.L.S.) Library Science, University of Missouri-Columbia
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Curriculum & Instruction (English Education), University of Missouri-Columbia

Ann Lile
Associate Professor, Theatre 2008
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Speech & Hearing Therapy, Midwestern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Drama, East Texas State University
Master’s (M.Ed.)Student Personnel Work in Higher Education, Kent State University

James E. Lile, Jr.
Associate Professor, Theatre 2004
Bachelor’s (B.A.), East Texas State University
Master’s (M.A.), East Texas State University
Doctorate (Ph. D.) Theatre Studies, Kent State University

Mari Beth Linder
Professor, Nursing 1999
Bachelor’s (B.S.N.) Nursing, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.N.) Nursing, University of Mississippi
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Missouri-Kansas City

Susana Liso
Assistant Professor, Foreign Language 2011
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Spanish, University of Navarra
Master’s (M.A.) Spanish Linguistics, Ohio State University
Doctorate (Ph. D.) Spanish (Peninsular Literature), Ohio State University

David A. Locher
Professor, Sociology 1996
Bachelor’s (B.G.S.) General Studies, Kent State University
Master’s (M.A.) Sociology, Kent State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Sociology, Kent State University

Melissa Locher
Assistant Professor, Teacher Education 2013
Bachelor’s (B.S.Ed.) Education, SUNY College at Buffalo
Master’s (M.S.Ed.) Education, University of Kentucky
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Education (Educational Leadership), University of Missouri-Columbia

Jeffrey Macomber
Professor, Music 2002
Bachelor’s (B.M.) Instrumental Music Education, Bowling Green State University
Master’s (M.M.) Music Performance, Bowling Green State University
Doctorate (D.M.A.) Musical Arts (Performance Pedagogy), University of Iowa

Karen Madsen
Assistant Professor, Nursing 2013
Associate’s (AN) Nursing, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.N.) Nursing, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.N.) Nursing, Pittsburg State University

Terry D. Marion
Professor, Management 1976
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Education, Southwest Missouri State University
Master’s (M.S.) Business Education, Pittsburg State University
Specialist (Ed.S.) Counselor Education, Pittsburg State University
A.B.D., University of Arkansas

Daniel B. Marsh
Professor, Physics 1997
Bachelor’s (B.A.)Physics, Drury College
Master’s (M.S.) Physics, University of Arkansas
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Physics, Missouri University of Science & Technology

James J. Marsh
Assistant Professor, Engineering Technology 2011
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Business Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Lawrence Tech University

Kristi Mascher
Instructor, Teacher Education 2017
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Elementary Education, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.Ed.) Special Education (gifted), Pittsburg State University

Christi Mattix
Assistant Professor, Accounting 2011
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A) Business Administration (Accounting), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration (Accounting), Pittsburg State University

Wendy McGrane
Professor, Library 1999
Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Vice Provost
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Political Science, Mercer University
Master’s (M.L.I.S.) Library & Information Science, University of Oklahoma
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Education (Leadership for Higher Education), Capella University

David McKee
Assistant Professor, Physics 2013
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Physics, University of California at Santa Barbara
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Physics, New Mexico State University

Kyle McKenzie
Assistant Professor, Art 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Art (Studio), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.A.) Art (Studio), Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.F.A.) Painting/Drawing, University of Arkansas

Holly McSpadden
Professor, English & Philosophy 1999
Bachelor’s (B.A.) English, University of Colorado
Master’s (M.A.) English, University of Texas
Doctorate (Ph.D.) English, University of Texas

Sherilyn Merritt
Clinical Instructor, Dental Hygiene 2015
Associate’s (B.A.) Dental Hygiene, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Health Science, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.Ed.) Education Teaching & Technology, William Woods University

Richard B. Miller
Professor, Sociology 1985
Director of Disney Internships
Bachelor’s (B.A.), Henderson State University
Master’s (M.A.), University of Memphis
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Sociology, Oklahoma State University

Amber L. Mintert
Assistant Professor, Art 2014
Bachelor’s (B.S.Ed.) Education (Art & Design), Missouri State University
Master’s (M.S. Ed.) Teaching (Secondary), Pittsburg State University

Maryann Mitts
Assistant Professor, Kinesiology 2001
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Education (Secondary), Rockhurst College
Master’s (M.A.), University of Missouri-Kansas City

Brad Modlin
Assistant Professor, English & Philosophy 2016
Bachelor’s (B.A.) English Creative Writing; Organizational Communication, Murray State University
Master’s (M.F.A.) Creative Writing (Poetry), Bowling Green State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Creative Writing (Non-Fiction), Ohio University

J. Chris Moos
Professor, International Business 2003
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A.) Healthcare Administration, Wichita State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Wichita State University
Doctorate (D.B.A.) Business Administrative, Swiss Management Center University

Rebecca Mouser
Assistant Professor, English & Philosophy 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.) English, Central Methodist University
Master’s (M.A.) English, University of Missouri
Doctorate (Ph.D.) English, University of Missouri

Douglas Myers
Professional-in-Residence, Management 2011
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A) Business Administration (Marketing & Management), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Missouri State University

William (Chase) Neely
Lecturer, Music 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A) Business Administration (Marketing & Management), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Missouri State University

Brian Neugebauer
Lecturer, Teacher Education 2015
Bachelor’s (B.B.L.) Bible Literature, Ozark Christian College
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Education (Middle School Math & Social Studies), Missouri Southern State Univbersity
Master’s (M.S.E.) Education & Administration, William Woods University

Brian K. Nichols
Associate Professor, Finance 2000
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A.) Business Administration Economics& Finance/Accounting, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Accounting & Analytic Finance, University of Chicago
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Business Administration (Finance), University of Arkansas

Nicholas P. Nicoletti
Assistant Professor, Political Science 2013
Bachelor’s (B.A.), SUNY Brockport
Master’s (M.S.), St. John Fisher College
Master’s (M.B.A.), St. John Fisher College
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Political Science, University of Buffalo, SUNY

Coeta Ogle
Assistant Professor, Nursing 2014
Associate’s (A.S.N.) Nursing, Crowder College
Bachelor’s (B.S.N.) Nursing, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.N.) Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner), Graceland University

Ed Outhouse
Assistant Professor, Art 2013
Associate’s (A.A.S.) Graphic Design, Northwest Arkansas Community College
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Graphic Design, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Master’s (M.F.A.) Art & Design (Graphic Design), Iowa State University

David Penning
Assistant Professor, Biology 2016
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Biology, University of Central Missouri
Master’s (M.S.) Biology, University of Central Missouri
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Environmental & Evolutionary Science, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Carly Petersen
Educator in Residence, English 2017
Bachelor’s (B.A.) English, Missouri State University
Master’s (M.Ed.) Education (Curriculum & Instriction), Drury University
Master’s (M.A.) Writing (Composition & Rhetoric), Missouri State University

William T. Pinet
Associate Professor, Computer Information Science 1997
Bachelor’s (B.S.), The School of the Ozarks
Master’s (M.S.) Applied Mathematics, Missouri University of Science & Technology
Master’s (M.S.) Computer Science, Missouri University of Science & Technology

Glenda A. Pippin
Chair, Respiratory Therapy 2000
Associate’s (A.S.) Respiratory Therapy, 
Bachelor’s (B.S.), California College for Health Sciences
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT)
Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS)Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
 

Frank Pishkur
Associate Professor, Art 2005
Bachelor’s (B.F.A.), Indiana State University
Master’s (M.F.A.) Art (Ceramics), Wichita State University

Karen E. Plucinksi
Professor, Biology 2002
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Zoology, University of New Hampshire
Master’s (M.A.) Zoology, University of Montana
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Wildlife Ecology, University of Maine

Richard B. Rawlins
Professor, Finance 1988
Certified in Financial Management (CFM)
Bachelor’s (B.S.) University of Missouri-Columbia
Master’s (M.S.), Oklahoma State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Financial Management, University of Arkansas

Logan Reagan
Assistant Professor, Theatre 2016
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Drama Non-Traditional Licensure Program, University of Arkansas
Master’s (M.F.A.) Theatre (Scenic Design), Southern Illinois University

Kayla Reed
Lecturer, Library 2017
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Theatre & English, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.L.I.S.) Library & Information Science, Kent State University

Victoria Rhodes
Visiting Assistant Professor, Biology & Environmental Health 2017
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Microbiology, Kansas State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Biology(ABD), Kansas State University

Zachary Rice
Lecturer, Teacher Education 2017
Bachelor’s (B.A.) History & Government Education, Mid-America Nazarene University
Master’s (M.Ed) Adaptive Special Education, Southwestern College
Doctorate (Ed.D.), Education (Teacher Leadership), Southwestern College

Anna Rinner
Assistant Professor, Biology & Environmental Health 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Biology, Washburn University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Molecular Evolutionary Genetics, Purdue University

Michael T. Rodgers
Associate Professor, English & Philosophy 1987
Bachelor’s (B.A.), Central State University, Ohio
Master’s (M.A.) English, Pittsburg State University
Doctoral Studies, University of Tulsa

Vickie R. Roettger
Professor, Biology 1997
Bachelor’s (B.S.), University of Iowa
Medical Technologist Certification (ASCP), University of Iowa
Master’s (M.S.), University of Iowa
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Biomedical Sciences, Wright State University

Kim Rogers
Assistant Professor, Dental Hygiene 2000
Associate’s (A.S.) Dental Hygiene, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.G.S.) General Studies, Missouri Southern State University

Shannon Sample
Lecturer, Biology 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Biology, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.E.) Education (Secondary Ed-Biology), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Biology, University of Nebraska at Kearney

Stephanie Schiding
Lecturer, Kinesiology 2016
Associate’s (A.A.) Allen County Community College
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Physical Education, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Physical Education, Pittsburg State University

Alan Schiska
Associate Professor, Radiology 2001
Chair, Radiology
Associate’s (A.S.), Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.), Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.E.), Pittsburg State University

Thomas Schmidt
Associate Professor, Marketing 2011
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Business Administration Economics, Drury University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration, Drury University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Business Administration (Marketing & Finance), Saint Louis University

Richard Schooler
Associate Professor, Health Science 2016
Dean of the School of Health Sciences
Bachelor’s (B.A.), Pittsburg State University
Doctorate (D.O.) Osteopathic Medicine, University of Health Sciences-Kansas City
 

Trina J. Scott
Professor, Criminal Justice 1994
Bachelor’s (B.A.) History, Indiana University
Law Degree (J.D.), University of Missouri-Columbia

Stacie Scrivner
Assistant Professor, Dental Hygiene 2009
Chair, Department of Dental Hygiene
Associate’s (A.S.) Dental Hygiene, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.H.S.) Health Science, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.Ed.) Education, William Woods University

David Sharlow
Associate Professor, Music 2010
Bachelor’s (B.M.E.) Music Education, Friends University
Master’s (M.M.E.) Choral, Wichita State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Multi-Interdisciplinary Studies (Education/Music Education), University of Missouri-Kansas City

Nicole Shoaf
Assistant Professor, Political Science 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Political Science, Missouri State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Political Science, University of Missouri

Shanna Slavings
Assistant Professor, Communication 2010
Bachelor’s (B.S.), Missouri State University
Master’s (M.A.), Missouri State University

David M. Smith
Professor, Accounting 1995
Chair, Department of Accounting/Economics/Finance
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Accounting, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Master’s (M.A.S.) Accounting, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Accounting, University of North Texas
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Leslie Smith
Assistant Professor, Foreign Languages 2003
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Spanish, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Psychology, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.A.) Spanish, University of Arkansas - Fayetteville

Stephen D. Smith
Associate Professor, Geography 2004
Chair, Department of Social Science
Bachelor’s (B.S.)History & Political Science, University of Central Arkansas
Master’s (M.S.) International Studies, Georgia Institute of Technology
Master’s (M.A.) Political Science, Pennsylvania State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Geography, Pennsylvania State University
Postgraduate Studies, University of Michigan
Freeman Foundation Scholar, Japan Studies Association

Susan K. Smith
Professor, Music 1996
Director of Vocal Studies
Bachelor’s (B.M.) Music (Vocal), University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Master’s (M.M.) Music Performance (Vocal), University of Northern Colorado
Doctorate (D.A.) Music Performance (Vocal), University of Northern Colorado

Richard E. Spencer
Associate Professor, Criminal Justice 1995
Associate’s (A.S.) Law Enforcement, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Criminal Justice, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri

J. J. Spurlin, Jr.
Associate Professor, Criminal Justice 1998
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Criminal Justice, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Human Resource Development, Pittsburg State University
Specialist (Ed.S.) Industrial Education, Pittsburg State University

Chad D. Stebbins
Professor, Communication 1984
Director, Institute of International Studies
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A.) Business Administration, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.A.) Communication Mass Communication, University of Central Missouri
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Mass Communication, Bowling Green State University

Jennifer Stegall
Assistant Professor, Teacher Education 2016
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Elementary Education, Missouri State University
Master’s (M.Ed.) Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, Regent University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Learning Teaching & Curriculum (Reading Education), University of Missouri

Tia Marie Strait
Professor, Health Science 1991
Associate’s (A.S.) Dental Hygiene, Missouri Southern State University
Bachelor’s (B.G.S.) General Studies, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Human Resource Development, Pittsburg State University
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Educational Leadership, Saint Louis University

John H. Summerfield
Professor, Chemistry 1995
Bachelor’s (B.S.) General Studies, Portland State University
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Chemistry, The Evergreen State College
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Physical Chemistry, Oregon State University

Jency P. Sundararajan
Assistant Professor, Physics 2014
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Physics, Holy Cross College
Master’s (M.S.) Physics, Bharathidasan University
Master’s (M. Phil.), St. Joseph’s College
Master’s (M.S.) Physics, University of Idaho
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Physics, University of Idaho

Keith Talley
Professor, Music 2016
Department Chair, Music
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Instrumental Music Education, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.M.) Music (Saxophone Performance), University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music
Doctorate (D.M.A.) Musical Arts (Saxophone Performance), Michigan State University

Gail A. Taubel
Assistant Professor, Dental Hygiene 2007
Associate’s (A.A.) General Studies, East Central College
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Dental Hygiene, University of Missouri-Kansas City
Master’s (M.Ed.) Education (Curriculum & Instruction), William Woods University

Cliff Toliver
Professor, English & Philosophy 2001
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Anthropology, Texas Tech University
Master’s (M.A.) English, University of Texas
Law Degree (J.D.), University of Texas
Doctorate (Ph.D) English, University of Texas

Susan Tucker
Assistant Professor, Psychology 2010
Bachelor’s (B.A.), Missouri Western State College
Master’s (M.A.), University of Missouri
Doctorate (Ph.D.), University of Missouri

L. Hartford Tunnell
Associate Professor, Computer Information Science 1985
Bachelor’s (B.A.), Texas A & M University
Master’s (M.Ed.), Texas State University
Certified Data Processor (CDP)
Graduate Studies: Incarnate Word, St. Mary’s University, Texas State, Missouri State University

T. A. Vernon
Professor, Management 1988
Bachelor’s (B.S.)Mechanical Engineering, University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration (Operations Management), University of Mississippi
Doctorate (D.B.A.) Business Administration (Quqantitative Analysis/Management Science), Louisiana Tech University
CQE (Certified Quality Engineer)

Steven T. Wagner
Professor, History 2000
Bachelor’s (B.A.) History & Political Science, Purdue University
Master’s (M.A.) American History, Purdue University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) American History, Purdue University
Summer Studies, Oxford University, England

Xiaocan (Lucy) Wang
Associate Professor, Library 2014
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Archives, Sichuan University
Master’s (M.S.) Computer Science, Southern Polytechnic State University
Master’s (M.L.I.S.) Library & Information Studies, University of Oklahoma

Zak Watson
Associate Professor, English & Philosophy 2016
Department Chair, English & Philosophy
Bachelor’s (B.A.) English & Religious Studies, University of Missouri
Master’s (M.A.) Comparative Literature, University of Georgia
Doctorate (Ph.D.) English (18th Century British Literature), University of Missouri

Scott J. Wells
Professor, Biology 1993
Doctorate (D.V.M.) Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri

N. Ree Wells-Lewis
Professor, Sociology 1993
Interim Chair, Social Science
Bachelor’s (B.S.) General Studies, Louisiana State University
Master’s (M.A.) Sociology, Louisiana State University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Sociology, Louisiana State University
Summer Studies, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India

Renee White
Associate Professor, Social Work 2015
Chair, Department of Social Work
Bachelor’s (B.S.W.) Social Work, Pittsburg State University
Master’s (M.S.W.) Social Work, University of Arkansas, Little Rock
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Educational Leadership, University of Missouri, Columbia
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (L.C.S.W.)

Jason E. Willand
Assistant Professor, Biology & Environmental Health 2014
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Biology & Zoology, Western Illinois University
Master’s (M.S.) Biology, Western Illinois University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Plant Biology, Southern Illinois University

Chad Williams
Clinical Instructor, Emergency Medical Services Department 2017
EMT/Paramedic Certification, Missouri Southern State University 
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Health Science-Paramedic, Missouri Southern State University

Marcia Wilmes
Assistant Professor, Nursing 2016
Department Chair, Nursing
Associate’s (A.S.) Nursing, Missouri Western State College
Bachelor’s (B.S.N.) Nursing, Northwest Missouri State University
Master’s (M.S.N.) Nursing, University of Missouri-Columbia
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Nursing, University of Missouri-St. Louis

Claudia Wilson
Assistant Professor, Engineering Technology Department 2008
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Metallurgy, Frieberg University of Mining & Technology
Master’s (M.S.) Physics, Pittsburg State University

Jordan Wilson
Assistant Professor, Music 2014
Bachelor’s (B.M.) (Music Theory), Eastman School of Music
Bachelor’s (B.M.) (Vocal Performance), Eastman School of Music
Master’s (M.M.) Music (Performance & Literature), Eastman School of Music
Doctorate (D.M.A.) Music Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Tim Wilson
Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice 2015
Department Chair Criminal Justice
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Criminal Justice, Missouri Southern State University
Master’s (M.S.) Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Higher Education (ABD), University of Arkansas

Phillip C. Wise
Professor, Music 1995
Director of Jazz Studies
Director of Music Education
Bachelor’s (B.A.) Music Education, William Penn University
Master’s (M.A.) Humanities (Music), California State University, Dominguez Hills
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Music Education, Union Institute & University

Jeremy Wolfe
Assistant Professor, Social Work 2015
Bachelor’s (B.A..) Bible & Counseling, Johnson University
Master’s (M.S.W.) Social Work, Missouri State University
Doctorate (Ed.D.) Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis, University of Missouri

Tanya Yantis
Assistant Professor, Business 2011
Bachelor’s (B.S.B.A..) Business Administration (Marketing), Southeast Missouri State University
Master’s (M.B.A.) Business Administration (Management), Southeast Missouri State University

Albert Yeboah-Forson
Assistant Professor, Chemical & Physical Sciences (Geophysics) 2015
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Physics, Kwame Nkrumah Univ. of Science & Technology-Ghana
Master’s (M.S.) Physics, Eberhard Karls University of Tubingen, Germany
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Geoscience, Florida International University

Eric Yochum
Visiting Assistant Professor, Business 2017
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia
Master’s (M.B.A.) Management, University of Missouri-Columbia
Doctoratal Candidate (Ph.D.) Organizational Behavior/Human Resource Management (ABD), University of Arkansas

Jeff Zimmerman
Professor, Dean of the School of Business 2017
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Computer Science & Economics, State University of New York at Albany
Master’s (M.A.) Economics, West Virginia University
Master’s (M.S.) Economics, Purdue University
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Economics, Purdue University

Melissa Zolnierz
Assistant Professor, Biology 2014
Bachelor’s (B.S.) Anthropology, Loyola University
Master’s (M.S.) Human Biology, University of Indianapolis
Doctorate (Ph.D.) Anthropology, University of Arkansas

Emeritus Faculty

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

Enid Blevins
English, 1966

Fred Cinotto
Administration, 1965

Samuel L. Claussen
Theatre, 1977

Lloyd Dryer
Psychology, 1950

Loretta Frazier
Library, 1948

Harry Gockel
History/Geography, 1938

Betsy Griffin
Psychology, 1978

Cleetis Headlee
English, 1946

Julie Hughes
History, 1979

Duane L. Hunt
Theatre, 1964

Jim Jackson
Biology, 1976

J. Merrell Junkins
Psychology, 1963

Virginia Laas
History, 1988

Julio S. León
Business, 1969

William Livingston
Mathematics, 1968

Richard Massa
Communications, 1972

Martha Ann McCormick
Math, 1937

John Messick
Biology, 1984

Grace C. Mitchell
English, 1958

Melvyn Mosher
Chemistry, 1974

Gail Renner
History, 1965

Art Saltzman
English & Philosophy, 1981

Dorothy Stone
Business, 1939