June 29, 2020 - Chris Spilling named Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic and Community Development
Dear Colleagues,
I am pleased to formally announce the appointment of Dr. Chris Spilling as vice chancellor for research and economic and community development at UMSL. Reporting to the chancellor, this newly created position will elevate our important research mission as the only public research university in eastern Missouri while also leveraging and growing our economic and community development efforts. These areas represent two of our five strategic plan compacts for excellence.
Bringing these complementary areas together organizationally creates synergy and efficiency to enhance our outcomes and impact on the region. Chris has done an outstanding job leading efforts across our research enterprise and was the ideal candidate for this larger role which now includes overseeing the Anchor Institution Initiative, the Community Innovation and Action Center and the Office of Community Engagement and Outreach.
Chris is an accomplished researcher, teacher, administrator and advocate for the university. Throughout his more than 30 years at UMSL, Chris has served as chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, chair of the Faculty Senate and University Assembly, and as vice provost for graduate studies and research. He was recipient of the 2009 St. Louis award for Chemistry (ACS), the 2009 UM President’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the 2015 Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Service. Additionally, he is a fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, a member of the American Chemical Society and the National Academy of Inventors.
I look forward to working with Chris in this expanded role to enhance our efforts across research and creative works, community engagement and economic development. I invite you to read more about Chris and his new role in UMSL Daily.
Sincerely,
Kristin Sobolik
Chancellor
University of Missouri–St. Louis