Director of Advising
417-625-9558
Craig has been the director of advising since 2022. Before that, he started his career at MSSU as an adjunct instructor in the International English Program, later serving as international admissions counselor in the International Admissions office and as academic skills specialist in the Student Success Center. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English (Creative Writing) and a Master of Education (Curriculum and Instruction), both from the University of Missouri – Columbia. When not at work, Craig enjoys writing and working on renovation projects at his home.
Academic Success Coach and Orientation Coordinator, Phi Eta Sigma and Student Senate Advisor
417-625-3550
Jared began his career at MSSU in 2021. He is an alumnus of MSSU and earned his Bachelor of Arts in International and Political Affairs. He is currently working towards his Masters of Science in Justice Studies. Before beginning his position as Academic Success Coach and Orientation Coordinator he held a position in Project Stay serving first generation students. He currently serves on various committees and received the Southern Service Champ Award in 2023. In his free time, he enjoys lake days, Broadway musicals, reading, and traveling to discover new cities and cuisines.
Academic Success Coach, Student Employment Coordinator
417-625-9398
Jonathan started his career at MSSU in 2019 in the Admissions Office as the Admissions Processor. He has since worked in the Financial Aid office as the Withdrawal Compliance Counselor, and now in the Student Success Center as an Academic Success Coach and Student Employment Coordinator. He earned his Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from MSSU in 2022. He also has a Bachelors Degree in General Studies from the University of Central Missouri. In his spare time, Jonathan enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter, and two dogs. He is also a writer, actor, and amateur outdoorsman. Jonathan takes great pride in assisting his advisees and the student employees across campus. In addition to his duties within the Student Success Center, Jonathan also serves on Staff Senate as the Executive at Large, as well as serving on multiple committees, such as the Communications Committee, Governance Committee, and as co-chair of the Elections Committee.
Academic Success Coach, Academic Support Coordinator
417-625-3176
Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, with an emphasis in literary studies and a minor in writing, from MSSU and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Education. She joined the Student Success Center in 2022 and is happy to help students succeed in their academic careers. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading historical fiction, and learning embroidery.
Academic Advisor, Athletic Support Specialist
417-625-9347
Susan holds a BS degree in Education from Pittsburg State University and a Master of Science in Educational Adm inistration from William Woods University . Before becoming an Academic Advisor Athletic Support Specialist, she recently retired as a public educator from Joplin Schools . In her free time Mrs. Knapps enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Academic Success Coach, Coordinator of Disability Services
417-625-9516
Lori began her career at MSSU in 2012. She serves as the Coordinator for Student Disability Services and as an Academic Success Coach. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (B.S.Ed.) from Missouri Southern and a Master of Science in Guidance and Counseling from Missouri State University. She also holds a Master of Science and a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership. Lori spent 25 years as a public-school educator prior to joining the MSSU Staff. In her free time, she enjoys her grandchildren, the outdoors, and baking.
Academic Success Coach, Special Population Programming Coordinator
417-625-9324
Debra began her career at MSSU in 2011. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Missouri Southern State University in 1998 and went on to earn a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Avila University in 2000. Before beginning her position as Academic Success Coach and Special Population Programming Coordinator she held positions as Academic Advisor and Mental Health Counselor. She also teaches UE 400 and 401, Leadership Training for Course Assistants. She serves on various committees and received the Southern Service Champ Award in 2020. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and reading.
Academic Success Coach, Academic Recovery Coordinator
417-625- 9324
Lisa began her career as an Academic Advisor at MSSU in 2019. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (B.S.Ed.) from Missouri Southern and an M.S.Ed. in Elementary Education from Pittsburg State University. As a proud graduate of MSSU, Lisa is active in and has served as president of the Alumni Association. Before joining the ACTS department, Lisa spent 17 years as a public-school educator for the Carthage R-9 school district. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, creating memories with her three granddaughters, reading, and craft activities.
