Truman State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by academic excellence, Truman State University is dedicated to fostering a dynamic learning environment that cultivates critical thinking, innovation, and lifelong learning for its students, positioning itself as a premier public liberal arts and sciences institution.

Leadership Roles at Truman State University

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

    Melinda Wood, the President at Truman State University, leads the overall strategic direction and operational management of the institution. Wood is responsible for fostering academic excellence, promoting research, and ensuring the university's financial stability and growth. This executive leadership position involves engaging with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders to advance the university's mission. By championing new academic programs and initiatives, Melinda Wood drives innovation and enhances the educational offerings. Wood also oversees administrative functions, ensuring efficient operations and resource allocation across all departments, thereby solidifying Truman State University's reputation as a leading public liberal arts and sciences university.

    Hall Laurie - Executive Secretary To the President

    Hall Laurie, the Executive Secretary To the President at Truman State University, provides comprehensive administrative support to the President, facilitating the smooth execution of presidential duties. Laurie manages the President's schedule, coordinates high-level meetings, and handles sensitive communications, ensuring operational continuity. This critical support role involves preparing agendas, drafting correspondence, and organizing essential documentation for strategic discussions and decision-making processes. By maintaining efficient administrative workflows, Hall Laurie enables the President to focus on institutional leadership and strategic initiatives. Laurie's meticulous attention to detail and organizational skills are vital for supporting the President's engagement with the Board of Governors and other key stakeholders.

    Conner Viets - Chapter President

    Conner Viets, serving as Chapter President at Truman State University, leads a specific student organization, driving its objectives and member engagement. Viets oversees chapter activities, coordinates events, and represents the chapter's interests within the university community. This leadership role involves fostering a positive and productive environment for chapter members, encouraging participation and development. By organizing initiatives and managing chapter operations, Conner Viets contributes to the vibrant student life on campus. Viets's dedication to the chapter's mission ensures its continued success and positive impact on its members and the broader university.

    Kellan Mooi - Chapter President

    Kellan Mooi, as Chapter President at Truman State University, directs the operations and strategic initiatives of a specific student chapter. Mooi is responsible for guiding chapter members, planning events, and ensuring the chapter fulfills its organizational goals. This leadership position involves fostering collaboration among members and representing the chapter's voice within the university framework. By implementing effective strategies and promoting member involvement, Kellan Mooi enhances the chapter's contribution to the student experience. Mooi's commitment to the chapter's mission supports its growth and its role in enriching campus life at Truman State University.

    Taylor Mason - President

    Taylor Mason, the President at Truman State University, spearheads the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Mason is accountable for advancing the university's academic standing, research endeavors, and overall institutional health. This executive role requires fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to propel the university forward. By championing innovative academic programs and strategic growth plans, Taylor Mason enhances the educational landscape. Mason also oversees the effective management of university resources and administrative functions, ensuring operational excellence and reinforcing Truman State University's commitment to its public liberal arts and sciences mission.

    Madison Williard - President

    Madison Williard, holding the position of President at Truman State University, leads the institution's strategic development and day-to-day operations. Williard focuses on enhancing academic quality, expanding research opportunities, and ensuring the university's financial sustainability. This leadership role involves cultivating productive collaborations with academic departments, administrative units, and the broader university community. By driving forward key institutional priorities and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Madison Williard strengthens the university's educational impact. Williard's oversight of administrative functions ensures efficient resource utilization and supports Truman State University's core mission of providing exceptional liberal arts and sciences education.

    Steve Elford - Chapter President

    Steve Elford, the Chapter President at Truman State University, directs the strategic operations and member development for a specific student chapter. Elford oversees chapter initiatives, coordinates event planning, and represents the chapter's interests to university administration and other stakeholders. This leadership position involves fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring the chapter achieves its programmatic and organizational goals. By implementing effective leadership strategies and promoting active participation, Steve Elford enhances the chapter's impact on its members and the wider university community. Elford's commitment to the chapter's mission supports its continued growth and its role in enriching student life at Truman State University.

    Donna Liss - Chief Information Officer

    Donna Liss, the Chief Information Officer at Truman State University, directs all information technology operations and strategic planning. Liss oversees the development and implementation of robust technological infrastructure, ensuring seamless digital services for students, faculty, and staff. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data integrity, and the integration of innovative educational technologies to enhance the learning experience. By optimizing network performance and supporting digital research initiatives, Donna Liss directly impacts the university's operational efficiency and academic advancement. Liss also collaborates with other university leaders to align IT strategies with institutional goals, driving digital transformation across all departments and securing the university's technological future.
    Donna Liss

    Michael McClaskey - Board of Governors

    Michael McClaskey, a member of the Board of Governors at Truman State University, provides critical oversight and strategic guidance for institutional governance. McClaskey contributes to high-level decision-making processes, ensuring the university adheres to its mission and maintains financial health. This governance role involves reviewing institutional policies, approving budgets, and setting long-term objectives for academic and administrative functions. By participating in board meetings and committee work, Michael McClaskey helps shape the university's direction and uphold its commitment to academic excellence. The Board of Governors, with McClaskey's input, champions the university's vision and ensures accountability to stakeholders, fostering a stable and progressive environment for education.

    Raiden Petty - Chapter Officer

    Raiden Petty, a Chapter Officer at Truman State University, supports the leadership and operational activities of a specific student organization. Petty assists in the planning and execution of chapter events and initiatives, contributing to member engagement and organizational objectives. This role involves collaborating with other officers and members to ensure the chapter's activities align with its stated mission. By actively participating in chapter management, Raiden Petty helps foster a dynamic and supportive environment for students involved in the organization. Petty's contributions are integral to the chapter's ongoing success and its positive influence within the Truman State University student body.

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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 Melinda Wood (President), along with executives such as Hall Laurie (Executive Secretary To the President) and Conner Viets (Chapter President).
    Who is part of Truman State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Truman State University includes leaders such as Melinda Wood (President), Hall Laurie (Executive Secretary To the President), Conner Viets (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 President, Executive Secretary To the President, Chapter President, Chapter President, President.