UCM Appoints Executive Director for Academic Support Services

By Jeff Murphy, January 7, 2019

Chris Beggs, a University of Central Missouri staff member who has played an important role in student success during his nearly seven-year tenure, has been named the university's executive director of Academic Support Services. He will provide vision, direction and leadership for the Learning Commons, TRIO-Student Support Services and UCM's Title III grant received this fall.

"I am thrilled and delighted to accept this role to help more students make the most of their opportunity at UCM," said Beggs.

Beggs began his new duties Jan. 2, 2019. He has served UCM in the TRIO Student Support Services office since 2012, first serving as a TRIO advisor for three years and most recently as the director of TRIO Student Support Services. During his leadership, TRIO Student Support Services has helped students who are considered most at risk of not graduating to graduate at a higher rate than other university students. In addition to his TRIO duties, Beggs served as the interim director of the Learning Commons during the 2018 fall semester.

"Chris has been a champion for students across the university. He has invaluable experience in both managing federal grants and providing comprehensive support services to students that will position him well to take on these responsibilities," said Karen Goos, interim vice provost of Enrollment Management.

Beggs earned his Bachelor of Science in Education and his master's degree in College Student Personnel Administration from UCM. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Education, Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Missouri-Columbia.