MSU chooses Cofer as next university president

James Cofer Sr. is the 10th president of Missouri State University, school officials announced Friday between commencement ceremonies.

Cofer, currently president of University of Louisiana-Monroe, is replacing Michael Nietzel, who has led the school since 2005 and announced in November his intention to retire this year.

The MSU Board of Governors met twice Thursday in closed session to choose from among the four finalists, who visited campus this week and last. The board unanimously selected Cofer, according to a university news release.

Cofer signed a four-year contract with a first-year salary of $275,000, along with a housing allowance, university automobile and expenses for entertainment and moving. The contract also includes a $200,000 retention incentive if he stays for the full four years.

Cofer was selected from 32 active candidates, which were narrowed down from a field of 88 applicants by search consulting firm R. William Funk & Associates.

In eight years as president of UL-Monroe, Cofer led the Reclaiming Our Campus campaign, involving more than 2,000 students, faculty, staff and community leaders in rehabilitating and beautifying the campus. He also oversaw $80 million in new construction and building renovations.

During his introduction, Cofer said he preferred a style of leadership and management that was as inclusive as possible.  

"I know I have to earn your trust and respect," Cofer said, "and I plan to do that, exactly as I did with the faculty, staff and students at ULM."

Before taking the helm at ULM, Cofer was vice president for finance and administration for the University of Missouri System for five years. He also has served four years as vice president for finance and administration for the University of Arkansas System.

Cofer has a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, as well as bachelor's and master's degrees in business from Mississippi State University.[[In-content Ad]]