David Fowler

David Fowler served as the 16th President of Park University from July 2014 to June 2015.12 Here are some key details about his background and tenure:

Professional Experience

• University President at Park University: Fowler held this role for one full academic year (July 2014 - June 2015).2 During his time as president, he:

  • Worked collaboratively with the University Board of Directors and Executive Officers
  • Strategically assessed various aspects of the university, including business processes, multi-campus education model, student enrollment, and fiscal budgeting
  • Conducted student and employee surveys
  • Enhanced professor union relations
  • Streamlined expenses, resulting in improved fiscal health for the university2

• Career at KPMG: Prior to his role at Park University, Fowler had a 36-year career at KPMG US (1977-2013).2 He:

  • Joined KPMG in 1977, specializing in banking and financial services
  • Became a Partner in 1987
  • Served as Office Managing Partner from 2000 until his retirement in 2013

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in accounting from the University of Missouri-Columbia12
• Certified Public Accountant in Kansas and Missouri2

Approach to Leadership

Fowler brought a unique perspective to Park University, leveraging his extensive business background. He focused on:

• Adding governance where needed
• Improving financial acumen and decision-making
• Enhancing enrollment processes
• Exploring entrepreneurial opportunities1

Fowler also aimed to strengthen the university's core values, recasting them as action verbs and adding key explanatory words to provide clearer understanding and expectations.1

It's worth noting that Fowler's appointment was intended to be interim, and he did not seek the permanent presidency position. This allowed him to make objective changes without concerns about positioning himself for a long-term role.1