Mast named as interim vice president for student success
Morehead State University President Joseph A. (Jay) Morgan has announced the appointment of Russell F. Mast as the interim vice president for student success. He will assume his new position Aug. 1.
Mast has been with MSU since January 2016. Prior to that, he served in the University System of Georgia and held numerous titles in his more than 25 years at Valdosta State University.
“We are delighted to have Russ step up and fill this position at Morehead State University,” said Dr. Morgan, MSU president. “The position of vice president for student success is a challenging job, but with his experience, Russ fits what we need in that role until a full-time replacement is found.”
Dr. Jason Bentley, who previously held the position, recently left MSU.
Reporting to the president, the vice president for student success serves as the chief student life officer and key representative for student recruitment, student support services and student engagement outside of the academic classroom. The position provides strategic vision to attract, retain and graduate a diverse, high quality student body.
The vice president and division staff partners with the University’s colleges to ensure that the recruitment and retention goals are aligned with the institution’s strategic goals.
Mast will serve as a member of the president’s cabinet and work with the senior leadership team with a clear focus on student success through academic excellence, robust co- and extra-curricular participation opportunities, strong institutional partnerships, scholarship, meaningful service to the region and effective resource utilization.
He will oversee the personnel, budgets, technology and operations of the following offices and supporting units: Athletics, Dean of Students, Career Services, Recruitment, Financial Aid, Police Department, Student Engagement (Student Activities, Recreation and Wellness, Disability Services, First Year Programs and Eagle Diversity Education Center), Tutoring and Learning Center.
He is married to Mary S. Mast and has three children (William, Emily and Andrew).
Additional information is available by contacting Mast at 606-783-2083.
