Dr. Michael Barger has been named dean of the Women’s College at Stephens College.
The new college combines the School of Health Sciences and School of Integrative Studies. Dr. Kate Berneking Kogut, who led the School of Integrative Studies, will retire from the college in the summer 2024.
Dr. Barger was named dean of the School of Health Sciences in June 2023. He earned his Ph.D. in Ecology and Parasitology from Wake Forest University. His research interests include parasite communities, parasite influence on host behavior, and biodiversity analytics. He has published nearly 60 original research articles, co-authored several book chapters and reviews, and served in leadership positions in his discipline. His research lab has been funded by the National Science Foundation, supporting the advancement of undergraduate students in research-based careers.
Before joining Stephens, Dr. Barger served in faculty roles at Westminster College and Peru State College.
Stephens College has two academic units: its longstanding Women’s College, which has educated women since 1833, and its new co-educational Conservatory for the Performing Arts, established in 2021 under the leadership of Dean Jennifer Hemphill.
The Women’s College offers 20 undergraduate programs, including Animal Behavior, Biology, Business Administration, Communication Design, Content Creation, Creative Writing, Digital Filmmaking, Education, English + Creative Writing, Equestrian Studies, Fashion Communication, Fashion Design + Product Development, Fashion Marketing + Management, Fashion: Apparel Studies, Health Science, Human Development, Integrative Human Biology, Nursing Pre-Med, Pre-Vet, and Psychology. The College also offers graduate programs in Counseling, TV + Screenwriting, and Physician Assistant Studies.
About Stephens College
Founded in 1833, Stephens College is the second-oldest women's college in the United States, dedicated to providing innovative, experiential, and career-focused education across various disciplines. Located in Columbia, Missouri, Stephens College continues to be a leader in women's education, fostering a community where students are empowered to lead, innovate, and excel.