JEFFERSON CITY – WGU Missouri is pleased to announce that Luke Holtschneider, of Jefferson City, Mo., has been appointed to the WGU Missouri Advisory Board. As a private, nonprofit institution established by the state of Missouri, WGU Missouri works in partnership with its parent institution, Western Governors University, and under the guidance of the state advisory board. The Advisory Board is comprised of individuals who work or live in Missouri and provide counsel on the most effective ways the university can meet the core mission of economic development in the state.
Holtschneider serves as the Deputy Director for the Missouri Department of Economic Development, where he is consistently seeking to increase engagement and collaboration among the network of local, regional, state and federal partners. The department works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce and maintaining a high quality of life.
Holtschneider has worked for the Missouri Department of Economic Development since 2008, first serving as Regional Project Manager for eight years, where he managed business expansion and retention opportunities in southern Missouri. His background also includes serving as the Department’s Manager of Rural Development and as Director of Strategic Initiatives, where he focused on advancing the Department’s priority initiatives through strategic planning and performance management.
“We are thrilled to have Luke join the WGU Missouri Advisory Board,” said WGU Missouri Chancellor Dr. Angie Besendorfer. “His extensive background in economic and workforce development will be an incredible asset as we continue to expand access to affordable, high-quality, higher education to adults across Missouri.”
Holtschneider, who resides in Jefferson City, holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Lincoln University. He is an active board member on the Missouri Economic Development Council, Missouri Community Betterment, Missouri Rural Development Partners and was appointed to serve as Missouri’s State Designee on the Delta Regional Authority.
