Former Southeast Missouri State University President Bill Stacy, 1980-1989, left a lasting impression through the adoption of the General Education program, the Honor Program, and the building of the Show Me Center.  

Stacy first came to Southeast as a freshman who received his undergraduate degree in speech and physical education in 1960. He received his master of Science degree in 1965 and Doctorate of Philosophy in speech communication in 1968 from Southern Illinois University.  

Stacy joined the Southeast faculty as an assistant professor of speech in 1967. He became a professor of speech communication and theater in 1974 before becoming interim president in 1979. He was appointed president in 1980.  

One of Stacy's most important contributions was the General Education program. After seven years of development, the General Education began in the fall of 1988. The overarching General Education theme is "understanding and enhancing the human experience."  

A second academic program begun under Stacy's leadership is Southeast's Honors Program, established in 1984. This program is designed to challenge exceptional students in an accelerated academic environment.  

One of the many facilities built under Stacy's leadership was the Show Me Center, which opened in 1987. This multi-purpose building was a joint venture between Southeast and the city of Cape Girardeau.  

On June 13, 1989, Stacy's resignation was announced by Anne R. Bradshaw, president of the Board of Regents from 1987-1989. Stacy left after being selected as president of California State University in San Marcos, Calif.  

Stacy currently resides in Lookout Mountain, Tenn.