Officials at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) invite faculty, staff, students and members of the West Plains community to a special reception at 10 a.m. Monday, April 7, welcoming Zora Mulligan as the university’s next chancellor.

The event is open to the public and will take place at Hass-Darr Hall, 201 Trish Knight St., on the MSU-WP campus. Light refreshments will be provided.

Guests will hear remarks from Missouri State University President Dr. Richard “Biff” Williams, as well as incoming Chancellor Zora Mulligan, who officially assumes the role on July 1.

“We are thrilled to welcome Zora back to her hometown and into this important role,” said Williams. “She is a proven leader with a deep understanding of higher education and a passion for student success. I am confident she will make a lasting impact on Missouri State-West Plains and the entire region.”

More about Mulligan

A native of West Plains, Mulligan brings more than two decades of progressive leadership experience in higher education. Since 2022, she has served as executive vice president for Missouri State University, overseeing enrollment management and contributing to record increases in freshman enrollment and total student population.

Prior to her current role, Mulligan served as Missouri’s commissioner of higher education from 2016 to 2022. During her tenure, she championed record-setting investments in higher education and led statewide efforts to enhance student success and workforce development.

Mulligan’s career also includes roles as chief of staff for the University of Missouri System, executive director of the Missouri Community College Association, and assistant commissioner and general counsel for the Missouri Department of Higher Education.

Mulligan holds a Juris Doctor and a master’s degree in education from the University of Kansas, and a bachelor’s degree in political science and psychology from Drury University.

She will succeed Dr. Dennis Lancaster, who is retiring after more than 30 years of dedicated service to MSU-WP.

For more information about the event, please contact the MSU-WP Office of University Communications at (417) 255-7960.