A former member of the University of Central Missouri team has joined Southeast Missouri State University.
Dr. Michael Godard has been named Southeast’s new provost, and will serve as a member of the University President’s Executive Staff and chief academic officer.
In a press release, President Dr. Carlos Vargas said they are pleased to welcome Dr. Godard to the Southeast community.
“With the rapidly evolving higher education landscape, Southeast must quickly adapt to changing dynamics,” said Vargas. “Dr. Godard brings with him a wealth of leadership experience that will help us strategize new educational delivery models and innovative academic programs to meet workforce demands and the needs of today’s students.”
He is a professor of exercise science, and formerly served as the interim provost-chief learning officer at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri.
Godard has a doctoral degree in human bioenergetics from Ball State University, a Master of Arts in exercise physiology from Adelphi University, and a Bachelor of Science in exercise science from Castleton University.
More than 50 candidates were considered for the role, and Godard was one of four finalists visiting the university between late April and early May.
Godard says he plans to build connections on campus and throughout the community in his first six months to a year on campus.
His first day is July 1st.