Missouri State University alumnus Robert Fulp is joining the university as its first executive in residence.

Fulp will work with the College of Business, the efactory and the Missouri State University Foundation.

Fulp credits Missouri State and his advisor and mentor Ralph Manley for giving him the start that allowed him to be successful in his business career.

“I’ve been blessed to have great mentors and friends who have done special things for me over the years, and I am anxious to pay it forward,” said Fulp. “I’ve been fortunate to have a successful banking career. My plan is to share my passion, work ethic and team concept with the students at Missouri State University.

“I want to take my success and make a significant impact on students. I look forward to sharing my journey with them, and to better prepare them when they leave this campus.”

Fulp’s role

Fulp will help the College of Business with curriculum enhancement, guest lecturing, alumni and student relations, career advising and partnership development.

At the efactory, he will advise and support the business accelerator cohort and will help with the investor network.

He will also help the university expand its business connections in the community.

“Rob Fulp has a long history with Missouri State University,” said Missouri State President Clif Smart. “His love of the university and experience and roots in Springfield’s business community will help our students in the College of Business and entrepreneurs at the efactory.

“The is the first time the university has hired an executive in residence and I believe this partnership will be a great match.”

Fulp has extensive history in banking, with Missouri State

Fulp earned his bachelor’s degree in finance and banking from Missouri State. He’s worked in the banking industry for more than 40 years. He spent his last 10 years as chief executive officer for Springfield First Community Bank.

Fulp has a long history with Missouri State University. He currently serves on the Missouri State Foundation Executive Board and the College of Business Executive Advisory Board. He’s previously served on the Alumni Association Board.

He received the 2018 Missouri State Golden Bear Award in recognition of his significant contributions to the College of Business at Missouri State.

Fulp is active in the community and currently serves as the vice chairman of the CoxHealth Board of Directors. He is also on the boards for Springfield-Branson National Airport, Every Child and Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks.

Fulp received the Missourian Award in 2016, which is given to the most accomplished citizens of Missouri. He has been one of 417 Magazine’s BIZ 100 top businesspeople for the past five years.

Fulp will work 20 hours a week.