COLUMBIA, Mo. – Drury Cooper, Dean of the College of Arts and Science at the University of Missouri, announced that Lael Keiser, professor of public policy and administration, has been reappointed director of the Harry S Truman School of Public Affairs at MU, effective Sept. 1. Dr. Lael Keiser has been reappointed as the Director of the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs for a third three-year term.
Dr. Keiser has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to academic excellence, significantly contributing to the school's growth and success. Under her guidance, the Truman School has solidified its reputation as a leading institution for public affairs and political science education and research.
Dr. Cooper stated, "Lael’s past accomplishments as director have proven to be a reliable foundation for growth. With her continued leadership, I am confident the school will maintain its reputation for excellence while aiming for — and achieving — new and higher aspirations."
In her time as Director, Keiser has overseen the merger of the Political Science program with the Truman School of Public Affairs to form the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs, overseen the addition of faculty within the school, expanded partnerships with government officials, led a global conference on AI, and is pioneering a leadership academy for state government elected officials.
In addition to her administrative duties, Keiser is also an accomplished scholar as noted by her many recognitions such as the Herbert Simon Award from the Midwest Political Science Association for significant contributions to the study of bureaucracy, the Rita Mae Kelly Award from the American Society for Public Administration for distinguished research on women’s issues, the Wilder School Award for Scholarship in Social Equity and Public Policy Analysis, and most recently, she was honored with the 2024 John Gaus Award by the American Political Science Association (APSA) for her exemplary scholarship in political science and public administration.
Dr. Keiser's ongoing leadership promises to advance the school's mission and elevate its impact in the field of public affairs.