As Missouri Southern starts a new academic year, the campus welcomes Dr. Alan Marble, Interim University President.

Marble made a quick transition into the position due to the unexpected departure of Dr. Bruce Speck during the summer.

The Board of Governors met over the summer to resolve the matter of finding a new president and unanimously voted to approve Marble to assume the position on a one-year interim contract while they continue to search for a permanent president.

“It’s a great honor to represent this University,” Marble said.

Marble’s journey at Southern began in the 1970s when he went to school here. He graduated in 1979 with a degree in psychology.

He then went on to get his master’s degree and PhD in higher education. Marble worked in multiple capacities at Crowder College for 27 years, serving as president since 2006.

Before Speck’s departure, the University announced that Marble would be filling a new position as special assistant to the president. Speck saw Marble’s retirment from Crowder as an opportunity to bring him in and strengthen relationships between community colleges and the University, according to Marble.

Richard Walter, BOG chairman, says that the position of assistant to the president will not be filled.

“Our staffing needs change periodically,” Walter said. “We aren’t going to do anything or fill that position until we hear what he has to say.”

Marble retired on June 30 and began at Southern on July 1. On day one, there were 50 days left until the first day of classes. He said on that day, his focus was how to bring faculty, staff and students into the best atmosphere possible.

“There is a world of opportunity here at Missouri Southern. This is a great university with great faculty, a great president’s council and great students—my goodness. There is nothing but success ahead for us,” he said.