Missouri State University president James Cofer steps down after less than one year on the job
News-Leader
June 27, 2011
Missouri State University today announced that James Cofer is stepping down as president of the university and will be leaving immediately to return to the classroom.
He officially leaves on July 31 but will relinquish his day-to-day duties immediately. He has been president less than one year.
At the news conference, Cofer, who turns 62 on Wednesday, said it was a “very, very difficult decision.” He will take a year off, then return to teach in the College of Business Administration.
Clif Smart, MSU’s general counsel, will take over as interim president.
Cofer said the rigors of the job didn’t allow him to work with students.
“It’s where I think my time is best spent,” he told those gathered for the announcement.
During time for questions, Cofer said his achievements include the strategic plan, opening up the budget process and addressing state auditors’ concerns clearly and quickly. Shortly after he came to campus, state auditors delivered a report critical of the school’s financial controls.
He reiterated his desire to work with students.
“You have to do what you think is right, and that’s the real kicker,” he said. “Being president is not the only way to have an impact.”
“I’m a tenured, full professor. It doesn’t get much better than that.”
