MSU president gets pay raise

Missouri State University President Clif Smart is getting a pay raise.

The MSU Board of Governors on Aug. 4 completed its evaluation of the university president after Smart presented his self-assessment in June, according to a news release issued yesterday.

“President Smart and his team overachieved with the implementation of the academic realignment plan in a 12-month period,” board Chair Chris Waters said in the release.

The board is awarding Smart a 5% raise – on par with the increase that’s being given to all full-time employees – to bring his base salary to $427,409. He's slated to receive a $25,000 retention bonus on Dec. 31, 2023.

“I appreciate the board’s recognition of the work that positions the university for future success," Smart said in the release.

The president's contract continues through June 30, 2026. Smart has held the role for around 12 years.