MoWest presidential search committee names finalists

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Missouri Western State University announced the names of the two finalists for the University's seventh president.

"The presidential search committee is pleased to have solid finalists who know MoWest very well," said Bill Grimwood, chair of the Board of Governors and the search committee. "The on-campus interview process will give our campus community and supporters an opportunity to get to know each candidate better and provide us with better feedback as we consider the best fit for the University."

MoWest's Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Jay Johnson and President of North Central Missouri College, Lenny Klaver have made their way as the two finalists.

Johnson's 22-year academic career spans numerous Northwest Missouri universities.

Klaver has served as NCMC's president since 2016 and has served as a faculty member at other colleges.

The finalists have to be on campus next week for in-person interviews. The interview schedule will include an open forum, which will give students, faculty, staff and the public an opportunity to hear presentations and ask questions.

Johnson's interview will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 17, in the Kemper Recital Room or Spratt Hall Room 101.

Klaver's interview will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 19, in the Kemper Recital Room or Spratt Hall Room 101.

Both Johnson and Klaver seek to take over after former MoWest president Elizabeth Kennedy announced her retirement earlier in 2026.