Public U Leaders Spotlight: Mun Choi

Your Name: Mun Y. Choi, Ph.D.
Your Title: President
Your Institution: University of Missouri
Year You Started Your Current Role
I was appointed President of the University of Missouri System in 2017. Since 2020, I’ve also served in a dual-capacity as Chancellor of the University of Missouri following approval from our Board of Curators to combine the two roles.

What’s the most exciting work your APLU Council or Commission is currently undertaking?
The Commission on Food, Environment, and Renewable Resources (CFERR) focuses on a broad range of issues, including agriculture, food, human health, veterinary medicine and natural resources. The commission is developing an integrated approach for APLU members to address high-priority areas of national concern, create more impact and forge strong partnerships with government agencies.

What are some exciting areas of work underway at the University of Missouri?
Development of a new, more powerful nuclear research reactor to produce radiopharmaceuticals to treat a variety of cancers.  Make Mizzou and Columbia, MO the epicenter for nuclear medicine development, clinical trials, manufacturing and distribution hub for the United States.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing individuals in your role on campus?
University leaders must navigate a range of enrollment and funding challenges while still advancing the important work of teaching, research and engagement. Looking ahead, there are significant opportunities for universities to redefine the traditional land-grant mission by addressing issues like public health, rural revitalization and workforce development. To support those we serve, the university must also remain meaningfully connected to the state through Extension and other engagement strategies. By expanding university access through online learning, fostering public-private partnerships and promoting interdisciplinary research, leaders can position their institutions to drive economic prosperity and make a difference.

What are the most important and valuable partnerships on campus for individuals in your role?
Strategic partnerships are essential to fulfilling our land-grant mission of access, innovation and public service. Strong relationships with state and local governments help align university goals with economic development and funding priorities. Collaborations with industry provide pathways for workforce development, internships, and applied research, while partnerships with healthcare systems and public health agencies expand the university’s impact on community well-being and medical research. The university must create these partnerships while also connecting challenges around the state with research and teaching on campus – directly leveraging our expertise to meet the evolving needs of all we serve.

Describe your university in three words.
Innovation. Leadership. Discovery.

What makes your university great?
Mizzou is home to a vibrant community of leaders, visionaries and doers. On campus, around Missouri and across the world – our ideas are translated into life-changing actions, resulting in a better future for all. At Mizzou, we delve into curiosities, discover new possibilities and reimagine tomorrow.

We are an R1 university with the most powerful research reactor in the country and 13 school and colleges, along with a major hospital, all on one campus. This incredible collection of resources perfectly positions our students, faculty and staff to work together and create breakthrough discoveries with impact.

What experience best prepared your current role?
Learning from the best leaders and to try to emulate their approaches.

Learning from the worst leaders and to try to avoid their approaches.

If you could go back and give yourself advice on the first day of your job, what would you say? 
Don’t take setbacks so seriously.  Work harder and work smarter and things will work out.

What is your favorite way to spend your free time? 
Read, watch documentaries, and attend live performances.

What is the best book you’ve read recently? 
Henry V.