Dr. Vargas reflects on “transformational” decade as SEMO President
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — After a decade at the helm of Southeast Missouri State University, President Dr. Carlos Vargas is reflecting on a tenure he describes in one word, transformational.
“Transformational, for me, but I think it was transformational for the university itself,” Vargas said in an interview marking his 10th year as the institution’s 18th president.
Since becoming president on July 1, 2015, Vargas has overseen significant advancements at SEMO, including the launch of several new academic programs aimed at advancing the university with the changing industries. These include degrees in Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Geographic Information Science, Cybersecurity, and Industrial Systems Engineering.
But for Vargas, a first-generation college graduate, his greatest pride lies in forming strong relationships with students and inspiring them to believe in their own potential.
“It becomes a very emotional issue for me to try to help them as much as I can,” he said. “I talk to them about the fact that they really can do a lot of things if they just set their mind to it.”
Vargas frequently shared a phrase that hits close to home for him, “Sí se puede” “Yes, it can be done.” He said the message connects deeply with his own journey and reflects his mindset throughout his tenure.
Beyond academics, Vargas discusses the importance of quality and accountability in higher education. Under his leadership, more than 30 academic programs achieved accreditation from recognized organizations, ensuring students receive a competitive and comprehensive education.
“It’s not just me,” Vargas said of the university’s progress. “It’s been the faculty, it’s been the staff, it’s been the students. It’s been the result of listening to the community and trying to figure out how we respond to the needs and the challenges that they have.”
As Southeast Missouri continues to grow, Vargas also prioritized the university’s role in regional economic development, connecting academic offerings with workforce demands.
When asked if there was anything he would change about his presidency, Vargas admitted he might have benefited from acting more decisively earlier in his tenure. “We’re like the little duck in the pond that seems to float without moving too much, but the feet underneath are going like this. But I still think that I could have been more decisive sooner to be able to achieve even more things.”
Looking ahead, Vargas remains open to future opportunities, though his immediate plans remain undecided. “Part of the excitement that I have is that I deal with things as they come along,” he said. “I’m still very excited about contributing.”
As he passes the torch to incoming president Dr. Brad Hodson, Vargas shared a heartfelt message: “Best of luck.”
To his students, past and present, Vargas offered one final message “go out and change the world. I believe that they can do that. Each one in their own way, they can change the world. Extend your wings and conquer the world.”
Students and faculty alike are expressing gratitude for Vargas’s decade of service, a tenure marked by transformation, vision, and a deep commitment to student success.
