Friday, August 21, 2026

Missouri Southern recognizes 22 faculty members for tenure, promotion


(From Missouri Southern State University)

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) recognized 22 outstanding faculty members during its annual Promotion and Tenure Recognition Event on Aug. 20.

The event celebrated faculty members who have achieved tenure and/or promotion through the university’s rigorous review process.








“Earning tenure and promotion are significant milestones in the careers of university faculty,” said MSSU President Dr. Dean Van Galen. “The faculty we recognize today have demonstrated success in teaching, scholarship and service. They have demonstrated that they are effective educators and scholars and are committed to mentoring, engaging and supporting our students.”

The Missouri Southern Board of Governors approved the tenure of four faculty members and the promotion of 18 faculty members during its June meeting.

2026 Tenure and Promotion Faculty Honorees

Tenure

Dr. Betsy Adelizzi —Justice Studies, Assistant Professor,
Dr. Alicia Burris —Biology & Environmental Health and Safety, Assistant Professor,
Dr. Angie Durborow —Teacher Education, Assistant Professor,
Ms. Whitney Hamm —Spiva Library, Assistant Professor

Promotion

Dr. Wendy Chrisenbery — Nursing, Associate Clinical Instructor
Mrs. Kathrine Christian — Dental Hygiene, Professor
Mrs. Kathleen Cowley — Nursing, Associate Clinical Instructor
Mrs. Michelle Dawson — Management, Associate Master Instructor
Mrs. Jannette Eldred — Social Work, Associate Clinical Instructor
Dr. Tonya Heavin — Teacher Education, Associate Professor
Dr. Jody Jensen — English, Associate Professor







Mr. John Kilmer — Biology & Environmental Health and Safety, Associate Master Instructor
Mr. Kyle McKenzie — Art & Design, Professor
Mr. Brian Mehrens — Communication, Associate Master Instructor
Mrs. Sherilyn Merritt — Dental Hygiene, Associate Clinical Instructor
Dr. Amber Mintert — Art & Design, Professor
Dr. Aaron Moore — Chemistry/Physics Sciences, Associate Master Instructor
Ms. Melissah Perkins — Biology & Environmental Health and Safety, Associate Master Instructor
Mrs. Stephanee Schiding — Kinesiology, Associate Master Instructor
Dr. Nicole Shoaf — Justice Studies, Professor
Mrs. Erin Taber — Emergency Medical Services, Associate Clinical Instructor
Mrs. Jenifer Vieselmeyer — Teacher Education, Associate Master Instructor

The event is a Missouri Southern tradition that began six years ago and provides an opportunity for the university community to celebrate faculty accomplishments and reflect on their impact on students.

 

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