MU appoints College of Arts and Science dean

University of Missouri provost and executive vice chancellor Garnett Stokes announced on Tuesday that Patricia Okker, professor of English and interim dean of the College of Arts and Science, has been named dean of the College of Arts and Science.

“There is no question that Dr. Okker is prepared to lead the college into the future as a thoughtful innovator who understands the pressing issues affecting public higher education, especially our preeminent research universities,” Stokes said. “I can’t wait to see what she accomplishes as MU’s Arts and Science dean.”

Okker has been at the University of Missouri since 1990, and has previously served as chair of the Department of English and senior associate provost.

“I am thrilled and honored to serve as dean of the College of Arts and Science, home to extraordinary faculty, staff, students and alumni, dedicated to student success and excellence in research and creative activity,” Okker said. “I look forward to working with colleagues here and throughout Missouri to ensure Mizzou’s role as a strong AAU public land grant university.”