By BRENT MARTIN
St. Joseph Post
Missouri Western State University President Matt Wilson is leaving the university for what he calls his “dream job.”
Missouri Western says Wilson is leaving St. Joseph to become the next dean of Temple University Japan.
“You hear people talking about dream jobs, but this is literally my greatest hope come true,” Wilson said in a written statement released by Missouri Western. “My roots at Temple University run deep. Not only did I earn my Juris Doctor degree there, but I also spent part of my law school career as a student at Temple University Japan and worked there in various capacities for six years. Temple University Japan helped shape me, and I feel like I’m going home.”
Wilson hasn’t been with Missouri Western long. He became the 5th president of Missouri Western on July 1st of last year.
“Through the efforts of many, we have made considerable progress amidst challenging times and unexpected circumstances,” Wilson said. “We have prioritized students, facilitated student success and helped strengthen community relationships. We have reminded the community, region and state about the many advantages of a Missouri Western education. Albeit difficult, we have made progress on the budgetary front as well. I know that the Board of Governors, the leadership team and our supporters are fully committed to the plan and strategies we have developed.”
Wilson plans to remain at Missouri Western as needed to ensure a smooth transition. The Board of Governors will meet again soon to discuss the search process for Missouri Western’s next president.
Wilson came to Missouri Western after serving two years as president of the University of Akron. He had previously served as dean of the University of Akron School of Law, associate dean of the University of Wyoming College of Law and senior associate dean and general counsel of Temple University Japan.