Robert C. Mock, Jr. was named the 35th president of Peru State College on Thursday, putting him at the head of Nebraska’s oldest institution of higher education.
Mock was named to the position by the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees and Chancellor Paul Turman, who oversees the system’s campuses in Peru, Chadron and Wayne.
“Dr. Mock has a true passion for the institution, for our mission of accessibility and affordability, and most importantly, for the success of Peru State students,” said Trustee Bob Engles.
Mock comes to Southeast Nebraska from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where he has served in multiple leadership roles since 2018, including as vice president for strategic initiatives, chief of staff, vice president for enrollment management and student experience and interim athletic director.
He previously served as president of Johnson and Wales University Charlotte Campus, vice president for student affairs at the University of Kentucky, and associate vice provost for student affairs at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville.
“Peru State College has a long history of academic excellence, innovation and service, and I am inspired by its traditions, energized by its aspirations and eager to work alongside this extraordinary community to build on its many strengths,” Mock said.
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Turman said the Nebraska State College System relied upon feedback and participation from faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members in the search that led to Mock’s hiring.
The state colleges sought someone who can leverage the campus and community’s strengths “to expand Peru State’s momentum as a student-centered and regionally engaged institution,” Turman said.
“Dr. Mock brings a track record of leadership in student success, enrollment, and strategic planning, and he has consistently demonstrated an ability to connect authentically with students, faculty, and staff,” Turman added.
Mock holds a Bachelor of Science in engineering from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, a master’s in interpersonal and organizational community, and a Doctor of Education in higher education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
He succeeds Michael Evans, who retired as Peru State’s president in November 2024.
Mock will start in the position on Jan. 1.
Reach the writer at 402-473-7120 or cdunker@journalstar.com.
On Bluesky @chrisdunker.bsky.social
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Chris Dunker
Higher education/statehouse reporter
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