Missouri Western names new provost

By Jazmine Knight

Missouri Western State University announced on Wednesday that they have hired a new provost.

Dr. Jay Johnson has been appointed as provost and vice president of academic affairs. Johnson says it’s an honor to assume the role. He believes Missouri Western is a leader in economic and social mobility for the St. Joseph community.

”I am truly excited to have the opportunity to become a Griffon and work alongside the students, faculty, and staff to further address the needs of the region, advance the open access and applied learning mission, and create opportunities for innovation and growth that will ensure our students are prepared to face the challenges and opportunities of the future,” Johnson said.

Johnson will also assume the role of chief academic officer, in charge of the College of Business and Professional Studies, College of Liberal Arts, College of Science and Health, Graduate School and other academic support departments.

The new provost started his academic career by earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business from Truman State University. From there, he received a Master of Business degree in Administration from William Woods University and went on to receive a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Missouri–Columbia.

Dr. Johnson currently serves as the associate provost for academic operations and undergraduate studies at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville and has been with Northwest since 2018.

Johnson previously worked as a liaison for the Higher Learning Commission, specializing in university accreditation and prior to working with the commission, he served as liaison for the state’s Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, working specifically with academic program approval and review processes.

Johnson has also worked for Fontbonne University, Friends University, Benedictine College and North Central Missouri College in both faculty and administrative positions.

Dr. Johnson is currently the vice president of Johnson Land and Development Company, a private family farm corporation located in Gallatin.

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy, says she is excited to welcome Dr. Johnson to the Griffon family.

“Dr. Johnson has had a distinguished career in higher education, serving a variety of institutions with diverse missions. He is committed to aligning academic programs with regional workforce needs and has a strong track record of transforming visions into reality,” Kennedy said. “I know that he will be an outstanding leader for our Division of Academic Affairs and will provide excellent service to our students and our community.”

Dr. Johnson assumes his new role at Missouri Western on Jan. 13, 2025.