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WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-9) and incoming Truman State President Dr. Troy Paino met Thursday in Washington, D.C., to discuss how the school and congressman can work together to ensure that the university continues to thrive in the future.

“Truman State has a national reputation as a top university that produces top-notch graduates, and I look forward to working with Dr. Paino in the future as the school looks at ways to build on its past successes,” Luetkemeyer said. “Truman State is an asset not only to the 9th District but also to the state of Missouri and the nation.”

Truman State University, founded in 1867, has the highest graduation rate among all Missouri public institutions and more than 50 percent of Truman’s graduates pursue an advanced degree immediately upon graduating.

Paino, who officially becomes the 16th Truman State President on May 10, began working as provost at Truman in 2008. Before coming to Truman, he served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Winona State University in Minnesota. He has taught history classes at both Truman and Winona State.

Luetkemeyer also praised the work of retiring Truman President Dr. Darrell W. Krueger, who had served for 16 years as vice president for academic affairs and dean of instruction at Truman State prior to serving as President of Winona State until 2005.  Krueger was named Truman State President in October 2008.

“Dr. Krueger’s hard work, dedication and leadership are clearly reflected in the success of Truman State and its students over the years,” Luetkemeyer said.