Advisory Board

Dynamic and diverse programs have been hallmarks of the MSU School of Earth, Environment and Sustainability for years. Such a broad based academic foundation has provided solid ground for my career with the U.S. Geological Survey, strengthening my ability to work in a variety of roles within the many scientific tasks undertaken by the USGS. It is an honor to be able to serve with the MSU SEES advisory board -- a reconnect to a rewarding academic and collegiate experience that was one of my most memorable life experiences. I truly enjoy the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing successes of the department for the benefit of its students and graduates.

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U.S. Geological Survey (retired)
xrussxcaton@gmail.com

I originally started down the path of studying CAD, but quickly learned that wasn't for me. Looking in a different direction and my lifetime appreciation of maps, had me register for some 100 level geography courses and my path towards photogrammetry and GIS was born. My first class in air photo interpretation was harder than I expected so, I find it ironic I ended up working as a stereo compiler right out of school. Once I got started, I knew I found my place. We were the last photogrammetry class to work on a kelsh plotter and the first to dabble in softcopy photogrammetry. The diverse foundation of my cartography major and global studies minor was the perfect springboard into all things geospatial.

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Vice President, Business Development Greater St. Louis area
SURDEX Corporation
St. Louis, MO 63005
timb@surdex.com

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County Administrator, Greene County
Springfield, MO
CCoulter@greenecountymo.gov

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Director of Planning
Tanner Consulting LLC
Tulsa OK Area
erik_enyart@hotmail.com

My time at Missouri State was immensely valuable to me in my career and my life; I enjoyed being part of such a great university! I was lucky to have found the degrees, courses and professors in the School of Earth, Environment and Sustainability. While each day I might not use everything I learned in the classroom, I know, I constantly draw on the education I received. My time spent in the halls and classrooms of Temple Hall is irreplaceable. I want as many as possible future graduates to have the same experience. GRY135 not only introduced me to my major, it also introduced me to my wife! MSU, SEES and the entire community of Springfield has continued to dramatically improve. I'm even more proud of them all today, as I was then. Regardless of where life takes me, I will always be a Bear first!

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Senior Vice-President, Economic Development
Arvest Commercial Banking
Springfield, MO
rmooney@arvest.com

The MSU planning program laid the groundwork for my successful career in planning and enabled me to obtain a professional leadership position within a few years of graduating. The program taught me important skills and concepts that I immediately applied in my professional and community volunteer roles as Planner and Planning and Zoning Commissioner upon graduation. I am proud of our program and am excited to help guide important decisions affecting the long-term health and sustainability of the SEES and enhancing the student experience.

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Executive Director, Southwest Missouri Council of Governments (SMCOG)
10 Park Central Square
Springfield, MO
jasonray@missouristate.edu

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Member and Manager
Pendergrass Consulting LLC
Springfield, MO
gary.pendergrass@gmail.com

Although I took a different career path than many of my fellow board members, I believe it is a great example of the varied opportunities a geography degree can provide to students. I really enjoy having the chance to be an active part of the Missouri State community with membership on the SEES advisory board.

Contact information

Vice President, External and Government Affairs,
American Hospital Association
800 10th Street NW
Two City Center, Ste 400
Washington, DC 20001
kristina.weger@gmail.com