Nov. 14, 2019—Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy has been named vice provost of Missouri Western State University. Dr. Kennedy is currently dean of the College of Applied Science and Technology and interim dean of the College of Health Professions at the University of Akron.
“We are thrilled that Dr. Kennedy will be joining the leadership team at Missouri Western State University,” said Dr. Doug Davenport, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Her extensive leadership experience and creative energy will assist us in our efforts to advance the University mission, vision and values.”
“I am honored to join the leadership team at Missouri Western,” Dr. Kennedy said. “I look forward to being a part of the vibrant campus community, working with faculty and staff for the success of our students.”
In her role as vice provost, Dr. Kennedy will focus on a number of elements of Missouri Western’s strategic plan, Pathways to Excellence, including strengthening student success, creating new partnerships and expanding applied learning.
The position of vice provost is a part of the broader effort in Academic Affairs to realign administrative responsibilities in order to increase institutional effectiveness.
Dr. Kennedy has been at the University of Akron since 1997, beginning as an assistant professor of social science. Her administrative experience began as a department chair in 2002. She became associate dean of the College of Applied Science and Technology in 2014, becoming dean in 2016. In that role, she established several key partnerships with industry and other educational institutions. She added leadership of the College of Health Professions in 2017.
Dr. Kennedy earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Master of Arts in Psychology, Graduate Certificate in Gerontology and Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, Applied Cognitive Aging, all from the University of Akron.
Missouri Western State University is a comprehensive regional university providing a blend of traditional liberal arts and professional degree programs. The university offers student-centered, high quality instruction that focuses on experience-based learning, community service, and state-of-the-art technology. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit www.missouriwestern.edu.