Cofer to lead Missouri State University

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri State University's Board of Governors has appointed James E. Cofer as the next president of the Springfield-based school.

Cofer has been president of the University of Louisiana at Monroe since 2002. He's expected to take office by Aug. 1 to succeed Mike Nitzel, who announced plans last November to step down this year.

Cofer was introduced Friday to Missouri State students and staff. The university said he signed a four-year contract with a first-year salary of $275,000 plus housing, use of an automobile and other expenses.

Cofer was one of four finalists for the post. The others, all high-ranking university administrators, were Sona Andrews of Boise State, Thomas Keon of Central Florida and Gary Miller of Wichita State.