About the Commissioner

Dr. David Russell, Commissioner

David R. Russell became commissioner of higher education for Missouri in July 2010, following a 19-year career with the University of Missouri System, where he served as senior associate vice president and chief of staff.

Prior to his tenure at the University of Missouri System, Russell served in the United States Army as a commissioned officer, retiring in 1991 as a lieutenant colonel after a 22-year career, including assignments in infantry, personnel management and public affairs.

Russell holds a B.S. degree in education from Henderson State University, an M.A. in communications from The American University and a doctoral degree in educational leadership and policy analysis from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Updated: 5/18/11