President of Three Rivers College resigns

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- The president of Three Rivers College stepped down Wednesday in a move that shocked trustees.

Dr. Devin Stephenson made the announcement at the monthly board of trustees meeting, saying only that he wished to "pursue alternative opportunities related to higher education."

Stephenson asked to be placed immediately on sabbatical leave until Nov. 30, during which time he will act as a consultant and receive his normal salary. At the end of the five month-period, his contract will be terminated.

Vice president for learning Dr. Wes Payne was named interim president by trustees, for a probationary period expected to last until November or December. At that time, trustees may decide to make the position permanent, said board chairman Randy Grassham of Van Buren, Missouri.

Grassham said he was shocked by Stephenson's announcement. Stephenson has been president since 2009.

"I wasn't expecting this to happen, but it did, so we're going to go forward," Grassham explained.

Stephenson will not receive any of his benefits during the sabbatical, he said.

The outgoing president likely will receive about $84,700, or five months of the $198,500 annual salary due under a new contract that begins July 1.

Trustees said they feel confident the college will continue to do well, despite the sudden change in leadership at a time when it has major construction projects underway at two campuses and must make $673,000 in cuts to the 2015 budget because of shortfalls in state funding.

"I think the college will be in a very fine position with Dr. Wes Payne as interim president," said trustee Eric Schalk of Poplar Bluff. "I really think Dr. Payne is well-versed in budgets and he has my 100 percent support."

This is a huge responsibility to put on someone in the span of one meeting, Grassham said, adding he believes Payne can handle the challenges ahead. Payne also joined the college in 2009.

Payne said he has worked closely with Stephenson on all of the college's major projects and the transition represents only a small challenge.

"Three Rivers is a fantastic and strong institution with a large group of dedicated people who are committed to helping our students. That is true as an institution without regard to who the leader is," Payne said. "I, personally, have always been proud and honored to work with these individuals."

Pertinent address:

Poplar Bluff, Mo.