Dr. David Manuel Has 'National Vision' as Drury's 17th President

Updated at 4:45 p.m.
Original copy 9:14 a.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Drury University Wednesday announced the hiring of Dr. David Manuel as the school's 17th president. He assumes his duties on June 1, 2013.

Manuel was introduced during a news conference on the Drury campus.

He is currently the chancellor of Louisiana State University in Alexandria, Louisiana. He will succeed outgoing Drury president Todd Parnell who plans to retire next spring. 

Manuel was one of three finalists chosen to be brought to Springfield for on-campus meetings and tours, as well as conversations with students and community leaders.

Dr. David Steele, dean of the College of Business at San Jose State University, was the other finalist for the job after Dr. David McInally, executive vice president and treasurer at Allegheny College in Pennsylvania, dropped out to take another position.

Dr. Manuel was introduced to the campus community Wednesday morning. He talked with KOLR10 about his vision for Drury's future.

"Obviously, the vision is one of national -- increased national distinction, but, articulating that and putting meat on those bones is really why I'm here. I want to be part of an institution that has a national vision for itself."

Interesting tidbit: all three finalists for the Drury job had first names of David. And Dr. Manuel's wife Betty will become the third Drury first lady in a row with that name.