Drury University extends president’s contract

Jeff Frederick, the 19th president of Drury University, is staying put in his role for the foreseeable future.

Drury’s Board of Trustees voted April 23, during a spring meeting, to extend his contract. He started July 1, 2024.

“After an exhaustive nationwide presidential search in 2024, we knew we had found a unique talent in Dr. Frederick,” said board Chair Walt George, in a news release.

“Over the last two years, he has exceeded expectations both on campus as well as in the Springfield community. We are delighted that Jeff and his wife, Melinda, have decided to make Drury their home for years to come. The university is in very capable hands.”

School officials declined to disclose details of the contract extension, including length and pay.

“Melinda and I came to Drury because we wholeheartedly believe in the tremendous value of a personal, relational education in preparing graduates to be adaptable, versatile and ready for anything that may come their way,” Frederick said in the release.

“In a constantly changing and impersonal world, Drury stands in a special place, where every student finds their people, their purpose and learns the skills necessary for a life of meaning and accomplishment.

According to the university, Frederick’s tenure has included an increase in traditional undergraduate students , the opening of the Mercy Science Center and growth in the relatively new physician assistant program. Total fall enrollment was 2,273 students.

One of the biggest changes under his leadership was implementation of the Drury Springfield Promise program, which was initiated last fall. Drury provides a $2,000 scholarship to any admitted student in an eight-county area. It also significantly limits out-of-pocket expenses for students who are eligible for the federal Pell grant.

At the start of the 2025-26 year, Drury admitted 179 students who were part of the program, the university said.

“It's been a privilege to work alongside our faculty, staff, alums, trustees, partners and community members as we gained great momentum these last two years,” Frederick said in the release. “I am pleased that the board has extended my contract and am grateful for the chance to keep serving Drury, Springfield, the Ozarks and beyond.”