Robert Stein

Dr. Robert Stein received a B.A. in Sociology and Philosophy from Beloit College in 1964; he earned his Master's and his Ph.D. in Sociology from Vanderbilt University. Stein has 40 years experience in higher education, half of which have been at the Missouri Department of Higher Education.

Stein currently works as Missouri's Commissioner of Higher Education, a post held since 2006. Prior to joining the MDHE, Stein served in faculty and administrative roles including department chair, Interim Dean of the College of Arts and Science, and as Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Stein is Professor Emeritus from the University of Northern Colorado and is actively involved in local, state, and national groups championing the benefits of higher education, providing leadership in Missouri for the development of state policies, and promoting initiatives designed to improve student learning and success in postsecondary education.