After almost four decades of service to Missouri State University, Dr. Tamera Jahnke, Dean of the College of Natural Applied Sciences, will retire on June 30, 2026.
Dr. Jahnke has made profound contributions to the university’s academic mission, scientific endeavors and institutional growth.
“It’s been my honor to serve the students, faculty and staff of Missouri State,” Jahnke said in a press release. “This university gave me my first opportunities to teach and pursue research. Throughout my life, I’ve benefited from the excellent public education I received. At Missouri State, I’ve had the chance to give back and make sure others enjoy the same opportunities.”
Dr. Jahnke joined Missouri State’s faculty in 1986 as assistant professor of chemistry, and over 35 years, she has risen through the ranks and held roles such as professor and department head from 1997-2005, acting associate provost from 2005-2006, and CNAS Dean from 2006-present.
She also took on additional responsibilities, serving as interim provost from last December until June of 2025, and has also served on the university’s Higher Learning Commission Steering Committee since 2010 and co-chairs the Sustainability Advisory Committee.
“Tammy’s long and successful career at Missouri State exemplifies outstanding leadership, integrity and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” President Richard B. Williams said. “Her vision and steady guidance have advanced CNAS and our entire university. While we’ll miss her presence, we’ll continue to carry forward the strong foundation she established.”
Under Dr. Jahnke’s leadership, CNAS has seen significant growth in several areas, including the launch of a new degree and certification program that includes the master’s degree in computer science, a successful implementation of the cooperative engineering program with Missouri S&T, the expansion and renovation of Roy Blunt Hall, the addition of the CNAS Undergraduate Research Symposium, and the CNAS Faculty and Staff Awards programs that recognize outstanding work.
The search for the next CNAS Dean will launch before the end of this year, with the goal of interviewing candidates early in the spring semester.
Photo courtesy of Missouri State University.