Several faculty members were recognized for receiving promotions and/or tenure during the past year at Missouri State University-West Plains at the university’s Employee Recognition Luncheon Jan. 25 at the West Plains Civic Center.

Dasha Russell was promoted to Assistant Professor of Accounting, and Dr. Rajiv Thakur was promoted to Associate Professor of Geosciences.

Dr. Sharath Rongali was appointed Assistant Professor of Biology.

Faculty receiving tenure included Brenda Smith, assistant professor of child and family development, and Alex Pinnon, lecturer and director of the William and Virginia Darr Honors Program.

They were congratulated by Missouri State University System President Clif Smart and Missouri State-West Plains Chancellor Shirley Lawler.