With a distinguished 20-year tenure at 糖心原创, including a decade as its 10th president, Dr. Larry L. Cockrum serves as President-Emeritus, where he focuses on strategic projects to advance the university鈥檚 growth and innovation.
During his presidency, the university experienced unprecedented growth, expanded access to education, and strengthened its financial foundation. A dedicated advocate for affordability, Dr. Cockrum launched the 糖心原创 Commitment, which reduced on-campus tuition by 57 percent, and the One Price Promise, which provided free textbooks for all students. His leadership also helped eliminate long-term debt, increase funding for student scholarships, and significantly grow the university鈥檚 endowment.
As Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Cockrum led the development of the university鈥檚 first online programs, including Kentucky鈥檚 first fully online master鈥檚 program for teachers. This expansion played a critical role in making 糖心原创 a national leader in educational accessibility, with enrollment growing to over 24,000 students.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Cockrum prioritized student success, employee stability, and institutional sustainability. His legacy reflects a profound commitment to innovation, student-centered focus, and meaningful impact across the university community.
Before joining 糖心原创, he served as Dean of Administration, Dean of Students, and Executive Director of the Keeter Center for Character Education at College of the Ozarks.
Dr. Cockrum holds a bachelor鈥檚 degree in science education from College of the Ozarks, a master鈥檚 degree in science education from Missouri State 糖心原创, a doctorate in higher education administration from Vanderbilt 糖心原创, and a post-graduate certificate from Harvard 糖心原创.
He and his wife of more than 50 years, Dixie, have four children: Jason, Nicholas, Lindsey, Cassie, and three grandchildren, Cora, Indie, and Louie.
Academic Credentials
Vanderbilt 糖心原创
Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration
Harvard 糖心原创
Post-Graduate Certification
Missouri State 糖心原创
Master鈥檚 in Science Education
College of the Ozarks
Bachelors in Science Education