Dr. Goltra appointed vice president and dean of students

July 3, 2024-Dr. Robert Goltra III has been named vice president and dean of students for the Division of Student Affairs at Missouri Western State University. Dr. Goltra has served as assistant vice president and dean of students since August 2023.

"In his time at Missouri Western, Dr. Goltra has provided outstanding leadership to the Division of Student Affairs and built strong relationships with students, faculty, staff and the community," said Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, Missouri Western's president. "I'm confident that in his new role he will continue to work collaboratively with his colleagues across campus to build an engaging and supportive atmosphere for our students."

"My family and I are proud to call Missouri Western and St. Joseph our home, and I'm humbled and honored by this opportunity," Dr. Goltra said. "Under Dr. Kennedy's leadership, Missouri Western's focus on the total student experience is second to none. Student engagement and success have always been at the forefront of my career in education; hence, I am excited to continue my work alongside my colleagues as we ensure our students succeed while at MWSU and beyond in their chosen professions and careers."

Dr. Goltra oversees Missouri Western's Center for Student Involvement, Career Development Center, Center for Diversity and Inclusion, Student Counseling Center, Student Health Center, Nontraditional and Commuter Student Center, Housing and Residence Life, Student Government Association, Center for Military and Veterans Services and Center for Service. The dean of students is also responsible for student conduct and the University's CARE (Campus Assessment, Response and Evaluation) team and works in collaboration with the University's general counsel and chief of police.

Dr. Goltra has been in higher education for 14 years as a faculty member and administrator. Prior to coming to Missouri Western, he served as vice president for student affairs and admissions services at Rogers State University in Claremore, Oklahoma. He previously served at Metropolitan Community College, Fort Scott Community College, Missouri Southern State University and Grand Canyon University. Prior to working in higher education, he served as a K-12 teacher and administrator for ten years.

Dr. Goltra received a doctorate from Lindenwood University and a master's degree and bachelor's degree from Pittsburg State University. He played two seasons for the NFL's Atlanta Falcons.

Missouri Western State University is a student-centered learning community preparing individuals for lives of excellence through applied learning. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit missouriwestern.edu.