April 3, 2023–Missouri Western State University has named Dr. Joan Brewer as dean of the College of Science and Health. Dr. Brewer will begin her duties July 1, 2024.
“Dr. Brewer will be an outstanding leader for the College of Science and Health,” said Dr. Joel Hyer, interim provost. “She has a wealth of experience as a faculty member and an administrator, and will be focused on helping our faculty ensure that all students are able to become successful, competent and confident professionals in their field.”
“I’m excited to join the Missouri Western family and the community of St Joseph,” Dr. Brewer said. “The fact that the College of Science and Health puts student success, applied learning, and community engagement at the forefront were key factors that attracted me to MWSU. Regardless of the course taught, I have continuously sought ways for students to actively engage in learning, increasing opportunities for students to experience success. As the dean of the College of Science and Health, I look forward to working with faculty and staff to continue the tradition of high-impact, real-world learning experiences and engaging with the St Joseph community in ways that move both MWSU and the community forward.”
Dr. Brewer joined Emporia State University as a faculty member in the Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation in 2001. She went on to chair the department, then served terms as associate dean and dean of the Teachers College as well as interim vice provost.
Dr. Brewer received an Associate of Arts from Highland Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Science in Health, Physical Education and Recreation from Emporia State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from Kansas State University.
As Dean of the College of Science and Health, Dr. Brewer will oversee a number of programs that prepare students for careers in health and wellness, technology, and scientific fields. Departments in the college include biology; chemistry; computer science, mathematics and physics; health professions; and nursing.
Missouri Western State University is a student-centered learning community preparing individuals for lives of excellence through applied learning. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit missouriwestern.edu.