Williams gets favorable review from MSU board

Missouri State University President Richard "Biff" Williams has received high marks from the school's Board of Governors for his first-year evaluation.

The board, which met last week, pointed to Williams' presidential transition plan execution, the development of a five-year strategic plan, the filling of leadership positions and oversight of MSU's transition to Conference USA, according to a news release. Williams succeeded Clif Smart as MSU president in summer 2024. 

"President Williams has demonstrated exceptional leadership in his first year,” board Chair Tim Francka said in the release. "His systematic approach to understanding our institution and community has laid a strong foundation for Missouri State’s future."

Williams is set to receive a $600 salary increase, which officials say is consistent with raises given to all full-time employees at MSU this year. The university president also was granted a $50,000 deferred compensation incentive bonus that was outlined in his original contract, and he plans to use the net pay of the bonus to create an endowed scholarship for MSU students.

The release notes Williams’ contract length that keeps him on board through at least June 30, 2029, is unchanged. Williams started last year with a base salary of $475,000. 

Williams' first year at MSU came with turbulence early on amid allegations of a hostile work environment and violations of Title IX protections when he was president of Utah Tech University. The MSU board voted in November 2024 to retain Williams as president amid the allegations, and a Utah Tech investigation disclosed this spring found no documentable evidence of misconduct by Williams.