Truman State University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Truman State University has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, governance, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Truman State University fosters a dynamic learning environment dedicated to empowering students through rigorous liberal arts and sciences education, shaping future leaders and innovators.

Leadership Roles at Truman State University

  • Chapter President - Steve Elford
  • President - Melinda Wood
  • Chapter President - Kellan Mooi
  • Chapter President - Conner Viets
  • President - Madison Williard
  • President - Taylor Mason
  • Executive Secretary To the President - Hall Laurie
  • Chief Information Officer - Donna Liss
  • Board of Governors - Michael McClaskey
  • Chapter Officer - Raiden Petty
  • Steve Elford - Chapter President

    Steve Elford, the Chapter President at Truman State University, leads a specific student organization, driving its operational activities and member engagement. This role involves coordinating chapter events, managing internal communications, and representing the chapter's interests to university administration and external bodies. Elford's leadership focuses on fostering a vibrant community within the chapter, promoting its objectives, and ensuring the successful execution of its programs. By galvanizing student participation and overseeing chapter initiatives, Steve Elford directly contributes to the student experience and the organization's impact on campus life. This position requires strong organizational skills and effective interpersonal communication.

    Melinda Wood - President

    Melinda Wood, the President at Truman State University, provides the overarching vision and executive leadership for the entire institution. This paramount role involves setting strategic direction, overseeing all academic and administrative functions, and representing the university to external stakeholders, including government officials, alumni, and the broader community. Wood's leadership guides institutional growth, ensures academic rigor, and champions the university's mission of providing a high-quality liberal arts education. By fostering a culture of innovation and excellence, Melinda Wood directly impacts the university's reputation and its ability to serve students effectively. This position demands comprehensive understanding of higher education management and strategic planning.

    Kellan Mooi - Chapter President

    Kellan Mooi, the Chapter President at Truman State University, spearheads the activities and strategic direction of a specific student chapter. This leadership position entails managing chapter operations, cultivating member involvement, and advancing the chapter's objectives within the university environment. Mooi's focus is on enhancing the chapter's contribution to student development and campus community, ensuring effective program delivery and organizational sustainability. By directing chapter initiatives and fostering collaboration, Kellan Mooi directly supports the student body's engagement and the chapter's overall success. This role requires adeptness in leadership, event coordination, and organizational management.

    Conner Viets - Chapter President

    Conner Viets, the Chapter President at Truman State University, directs the operational framework and strategic initiatives for a designated student organization. This executive function involves overseeing chapter management, driving member participation, and advocating for the chapter's goals within the university structure. Viets' leadership emphasizes strengthening the chapter's impact on student life and academic enrichment, ensuring the execution of its core mission. Through diligent management of chapter activities and fostering a collaborative atmosphere, Conner Viets directly contributes to the positive student experience and the organization's effectiveness. This role necessitates strong leadership and administrative capabilities.

    Madison Williard - President

    Madison Williard, the President at Truman State University, assumes a pivotal leadership role in guiding the institution's strategic trajectory and operational execution. This position involves championing the university's core mission, overseeing key departments, and fostering an environment conducive to academic and personal growth for students. Williard's influence extends to shaping institutional policies, managing resources effectively, and enhancing the university's public profile. By driving forward initiatives that support educational excellence and student success, Madison Williard directly contributes to the university's standing and its commitment to liberal arts education. This role requires visionary leadership and a deep understanding of higher education dynamics.

    Taylor Mason - President

    Taylor Mason, the President at Truman State University, directs the comprehensive strategic vision and operational management of the university. This significant responsibility includes guiding academic programs, overseeing administrative functions, and cultivating relationships with key stakeholders to advance the institution's mission. Mason's leadership focuses on enhancing educational quality, promoting student achievement, and ensuring the university's continued prominence as a public liberal arts institution. By spearheading critical initiatives and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Taylor Mason directly strengthens the university's impact and its commitment to student development. This role demands exceptional leadership and strategic foresight.

    Hall Laurie - Executive Secretary To the President

    Hall Laurie, the Executive Secretary To the President at Truman State University, provides essential administrative and strategic support to the university's highest leadership position. This role involves managing complex schedules, coordinating high-level communications, and facilitating the smooth execution of presidential initiatives. Laurie's duties are critical in ensuring the President's office operates with maximum efficiency and effectiveness, handling sensitive information and supporting key decision-making processes. By expertly managing logistical and administrative functions, Hall Laurie directly enables the President to focus on strategic leadership and institutional advancement. This position requires exceptional organizational acumen and discretion.

    Donna Liss - Chief Information Officer

    Donna Liss, the Chief Information Officer at Truman State University, directs all technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing the university's IT operations, Liss ensures robust cybersecurity measures and seamless integration of educational technologies across campus. This leadership role involves managing data systems, supporting academic research through advanced computing resources, and driving digital transformation initiatives. By optimizing network performance and implementing innovative software solutions, Donna Liss directly enhances the learning and administrative experience for students and faculty. Ultimately, Liss secures the university's technological future and operational efficiency.
    Donna Liss

    Michael McClaskey - Board of Governors

    Michael McClaskey, the Board of Governors at Truman State University, provides strategic oversight and governance for the institution. This critical role involves setting long-term institutional goals, approving major financial decisions, and ensuring the university adheres to its mission and regulatory standards. McClaskey's guidance shapes the university's direction, focusing on academic quality, student success, and fiscal responsibility. The Board of Governors, under McClaskey's influence, champions initiatives that advance the university's standing as a premier public liberal arts institution. This position demands a deep understanding of higher education policy and effective leadership in guiding institutional development.

    Raiden Petty - Chapter Officer

    Raiden Petty, the Chapter Officer at Truman State University, supports the executive leadership in managing the day-to-day operations of a specific student organization. This role involves assisting with event planning, coordinating member communications, and contributing to the chapter's overall strategic objectives. Petty's responsibilities focus on executing assigned tasks that enhance chapter activities and member engagement, ensuring smooth operational flow. By actively participating in chapter initiatives and supporting leadership directives, Raiden Petty directly contributes to the organization's effectiveness and its positive impact on the student community. This position requires diligence and a collaborative spirit.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Truman State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Truman State University?
    Truman State University is led by Steve Elford (Chapter President), along with executives such as Melinda Wood (President) and Kellan Mooi (Chapter President).
    Who is part of Truman State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Truman State University includes leaders such as Steve Elford (Chapter President), Melinda Wood (President), Kellan Mooi (Chapter President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Truman State University have?
    Truman State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Truman State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Truman State University includes roles such as Chapter President, President, Chapter President, Chapter President, President.