Missouri Western State University President Elizabeth Kennedy will retire on June 30th, 2026, after serving as the University’s sixth President since February 2021. During her tenure, the University’s Nursing program became the best in Missouri, and MoWest ranked number one in Social Mobility among Missouri public universities. Kennedy spearheaded the development of the Houlne Center for Convergent Technology, attracting $20 million in funding. She also launched new programs, a Corporate Education Program, and secured funding for library and building renovations. Kennedy’s extensive career in higher education includes various leadership roles, and the Board of Governors will soon begin the search for an interim president.


