Alumni and friends of Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) are invited to join university officials for a welcome reception introducing the university’s 12th president, Dr. Richard “Biff” Williams, from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 19.

The reception will take place at the Student Recreation Center, 323 W. Trish Knight St., in West Plains.

During the reception, President Williams will share his vision for the future of the Missouri State University system and its impact on MSU-WP.

Those who attend will:

• Have a meet-and-greet opportunity with President Williams.
• The chance to connect with fellow alumni and friends.
• Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and a hosted bar.

More about President Williams

Dr. Williams became the 12th president of the MSU system on July 1. He comes to the university after serving as president of Utah Tech University (previously Dixie State University) from 2014 through early 2024.

Previously, he served as provost and vice president for academic affairs and founding dean of the College of Nursing, Health and Human Services at Indiana State University.

Prior to Indiana State, Williams served as an associate dean of the College of Education at the University of Northern Iowa, where he was a faculty member; executive associate director of the School of Health, Physical Education, and Leisure Services; and athletic training department chair.

Williams has a PhD in curriculum and instruction from New Mexico State University, master’s in athletic training from Indiana State University and a bachelor’s in lifestyle management from Weber State University.

“We’re excited to have President Williams on campus Sept. 19 and to introduce him to our friends, alumni and members of our campus community,” said MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster. “He’s already hit the ground running, meeting with community leaders, alumni and friends in Springfield and other areas of Missouri, and we’re looking forward to hearing what he envisions for our campus moving forward.”

There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

For more information or to register, call 417-255-7240, email WPAdvancement@MissouriState.edu or visit Alumni.MissouriState.edu/BiffinWP.