The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- Truman State University installed its 16th President Friday.

Dr. Troy Paino served as the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Truman for two years before being selected as President.

“Over the last two years I have grown to love this place even more than I thought possible. For the most part it's because of the people who make up Truman and the community of Kirksville that have been so accepting of my family and me. But it is also because over the past two years I have learned that my suspicion that Truman represents those values I've dedicated my life to is actually true,” said Paino.

He came to Truman in 2008 from Winona State University in Minnesota, where he was the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. Paino began his career in academia as a history professor, and in his installation address he said a special thank you to the professors he now oversees.

“Everyday I do my job as an administrator, and now as president, it's your work that I keep in the forefront of my mind. It's your work that I want to support, because it's your work that helps us fulfill our mission. So I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the work you do day in and day out for our students,” he said.

Friday’s ceremony was attended by four prior Truman Presidents and delegates from 26 other colleges and university from across the country, as well as about 40 members of Paino’s family.

Truman has several events planned in celebration of President Paino's installation. For a schedule visit the Truman website.