Missouri State University has named Dr. Clarenda Phillips as the university’s next provost and vice president of academic affairs.

She will begin on July 1.

Phillips has more than 30 years of higher education experience. She previously served in the same role at two prior universities.

“Dr. Phillips’ deep understanding of higher education and her experience, enthusiasm and vision made her the clear choice for Missouri State,” said MSU President Dr. Richard B. Williams.

“What impressed us most was her commitment to making higher education accessible and valuable for all students, particularly those who started but never finished their degrees. Her strategic vision of leveraging technology while maintaining personal connections with students is exactly what Missouri State needs as we work to demonstrate our value in today’s changing landscape.”

Phillips is the Texas A&M University System lead for Re-Imagining STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) Equity Utilizing Postdoctoral Pathways. She previously served for six years as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, as well as the same role at Notre Dame of Maryland University from 2016-18.

“I’m excited to serve at Missouri State because I see tremendous potential for us to redefine the higher education value proposition together,” said Phillips. “This is a university where people continuously learn, grow and evolve –where we can figure it all out and innovate together.

“With the public affairs mission, we can bridge divides among diverse students while investing in faculty, embracing technology and building community partnerships. I’m eager to work to ensure our graduates make a real difference in their communities.”

More about Phillips

Before working at Notre Dame of Maryland University, Phillips was associate vice president of academic affairs (2012-16) and department chair of sociology, social work and criminology (2007-12) at Morehead State University. Since 2023, she has worked with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities as faculty for the Academy of New Provosts.

She has a bachelor’s in sociology from DePauw University, a master’s and doctorate in sociology from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary.

Phillips was one of five finalists considered for the position.

Dr. Tamera Jahnke will continue to serve as interim provost until July 1.