Stage 4 of SEMO Presidential Search commences; next president to be appointed in March

In Feb. 2025, the Presidential Search Advisor Committee (PSAC) will be transitioning to Stage 4 of the search for the 19th President of Southeast Missouri State University.

According to the SEMO Presidential Search webpage, finalist on-campus visits will tentatively take place from January through February, with the appointment and announcement of the latest university president in March. The PSAC will move to Stage 5 of the timeline on July 1, 2025, when the new president begins at SEMO.

The SEMO Presidential Profile outlines the presidential search process and describes the search’s mission statement.

“SEMO seeks a dynamic leader who will provide strategic leadership to continue to advance the University’s identity as a comprehensive institution, recognized for excellence in education, research, engagement and creativity,” the Presidential Profile states.

The profile also details a list of desirable qualities and priorities for the upcoming president, emphasizing the importance of cultivating community relationships. These ideals include dedication to student success and excellent communication skills.

Some of these highlighted priorities for the upcoming president involve making progress and obtaining resources for the Transforming Lives campaign, which aims at modernizing the SEMO campus, academic programs, athletics and technology. Others include making efforts to increase enrollment and fostering legislative engagement.

“Key priorities for the president will be to work with external constituencies to generate the resources SEMO needs to deliver on and expand its operations and enhance its profile,” The profile states. “In building these external relationships, the president will also demonstrate considerable skill and experience as a communicator and negotiator, and will possess the diplomatic dexterity, political savvy, courage of convictions, self-awareness and discerning judgment necessary for superb leadership.”

Information about SEMO’s search for a new president is available on the SEMO Presidential Search webpage. The PSAC chair will also update the SEMO community about the presidential search progress via email, with the official 19th President of SEMO announcement expected in March.