Dobbins' decade

When Ken Dobbins was named president of Southeast Missouri State University in 1999, regents hoped for a period of stability in leadership. In the previous 10 years, the university had had five presidents. This year, Dobbins marks his 10th anniversary at the helm. He has been the top administrator as the university has grown both in enrollment and in facilities. Here are some of the milestones during Dobbins' presidency:Enrollment has increased by 2,000 students. Higher education centers serve students in communities throughout Southeast Missouri. Two new residence halls have opened. Other major construction projects include the River Campus for the visual and performing arts, the polytechnic building, parking facilities and an aquatic center. The university acquired a new research farm and began planning to turn the old farm into a research-retail-housing development next to a new Interstate 55 interchange. A business incubator opened. Construction began on an autism center.

Financial crises also tested the resolve of university officials to provide a high-quality education at affordable costs. Tuition and student fees have been raised significantly, but the cost of attending Southeast remains competitive with other state schools.

Through it all, Dobbins has fostered good relations with local, state and federal officials. It's been a good decade.