The Southeast Missouri State University community inaugurated its 19th president, Dr. Brad Hodson, on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Show Me Center. The inauguration ceremony was part of a multi-day celebration designed to showcase the University’s academic excellence, community spirit, alumni impact, Redhawk pride and bold vision for the future.
During his inaugural address, Hodson shared his passion for the value of higher education and the challenges universities must face. He renewed a commitment to industry partners, elected officials and the region. He invited the University community to work together in moving SEMO fearlessly forward to clearly define what separates the University from other educational opportunities.
“SEMO’s vision for itself over the next five years will be to become the ultimate hands-on university,” said Hodson. “To put students into meaningful industry experiences with potential employers. I’m not talking about short internships where you observe the work being done. I’m talking about substantive experiences in industry that are worthy of a professional’s resume. Long-term 8-10-or 16-week placements where students discover if their academic choices match their career expectations.”
Hodson said the bold plan to distinguish the University with immersive learning was echoed by students, employers, elected officials and community leaders alike as he traveled Eastern Missouri on a listening tour after assuming his presidential duties this summer.
“There is a cry for something new. An educational model that is relevant, rigorous and rooted in the needs of students and the economy,” said Hodson. “Doubling down on hands-on-learning will separate our University from the competition, fulfill student’s desire for real-world experience, and employers’ requests that students be work ready on day one following graduation.
Hodson called upon the University’s strategic planning committee to develop a roadmap for the University’s next five years that advances the institution in being boldly supportive of students, being experience driven in academic programs, becoming more deeply connected with the region and being unapologetically proud of SEMO.
“I pledge to you that SEMO will be the place where fearless isn’t just encouraged, it’s inevitable,” said Hodson.
The ceremony also included remarks from representatives of SEMO’s alumni, students, faculty and staff, as well as a keynote address from United States District Judge for the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri (Ret.) and 1950 SEMO alumnus Stephen N. Limbaugh, Sr., who reflected on his more than 75-year history with and witness to the University’s many milestones.
The Southeast Missouri State University Board of Governors announced Hodson as SEMO’s president on Feb. 13, following an extensive national search. Hodson stepped into his role on July 1. The inauguration marks the official investiture of Hodson as president.
SEMO Board of Governors President Jim Limbaugh said, “President Hodson brings experience, strategic thinking and dedication to SEMO’s mission that will provide the University with the kind of leadership vital to its future.”