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Education news and issues in the Ozarks.

MSU-West Plains Announces Shirley Lawler as Chancellor

Provided by MSU

Missouri State University-West Plains will have a new chancellor as of June 1.

The new chancellor is no stranger to higher education in the Ozarks. Dr. Shirley Lawler will take over the position following the retirement of outgoing chancellor, Dr. Drew Bennett.

Lawler will be the first woman to lead the Missouri State University-West Plains campus, according to a release from MSU.

Prior to accepting the chancellor position, Lawler worked at Ozarks Technical Community College from 1997 to 2012 as associate vice president for academic affairs and dean of academic services among others.

She also worked as an adjunct instructor at MSU for almost 20 years.

According to the university’s press release, Lawler will be paid $162,000 per year with the option to live in the chancellor’s residence along with other benefits including:

•Access to the West Plains Country Club

•Complimentary tickets to all West Plains campus events

•Funds to host university events

Lawler’s appointment will be brought to the MSU Board of Governors for approval during the May 17 meeting.