Following a five-month nationwide search, I am pleased to report that last week I hired Dr. Dennis Lancaster to serve as chancellor of the West Plains campus.

Lancaster, a West Plains native, has worked at Missouri State University-West Plains since 1990, starting as a per course faculty member and eventually serving as dean of academic affairs.

He has been interim chancellor since July 2020. Before coming to the university, he was a reporter for the West Plains Daily Quill.

This was a very competitive search. We received 26 applications and interviewed two finalists.

Lancaster emerged from this rigorous process with a unanimous recommendation from the search committee.

I am excited for him to build on the success he has already had in West Plains and continue the Grizzlies on their pathway of success.

Thanks for all you do for Missouri State!