Board bids Russell farewell as he takes office as commissioner of higher education
David Russell
After serving as Coordinating Board of Higher Education interim commissioner since July 1, David Russell was named the new commissioner of higher education in December.
“Higher education is the foundation for a prosperous state and enlightened society,” Russell said in a press release at the time.
Prior to this, Russell served as senior associated vice president and Chief of Staff for the UM System. The Board of Curators took a moment to recognize Russell as he prepares to leave the System for the new job.
Russell has been working with the UM System since 1991. He is credited with influencing the development and growth of UM–St. Louis over a 20-year span.
“David was a great listener, a trusted confidante and a valuable sounding-board and interpreter for his colleagues,” the resolution stated. “He often provided reliable advice and could readily return a stormy work environment to a sea of calm.”
The board said it has no doubt Russell will excel in his new position.
“David will remain highly regarded by the many individuals whose lives he touched in UM System departments, on the four campuses, within the health system and throughout the Columbia and higher education communities, for his professionalism, collegiality and camaraderie,” the resolution stated.