Daugherty tabbed next president of State Fair Community College

Published 12:59 pm Wednesday, November 4, 2026

By Democrat Staff

Following a series of visits from prospective candidates, State Fair Community College has found its next president.

​The school announced Caron Daugherty as its next president Wednesday, Nov. 4, six days after she pitched herself to the community. The SFCC Board of Trustees approved the hiring during a special closed session Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Daugherty will begin her presidency Jan. 1, 2027, succeeding Brent Bates. Bates will retire after nearly 40 years in higher education on Dec. 31. He has been president since July 2022, but previously held positions including vice president for educational services over his two decades at the college.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, it is my distinct privilege to congratulate Dr. Daugherty on her selection as our next president,” SFCC Board of Trustees President Patty Wood said in a statement. “Dr. Daugherty’s vision aligns strongly with SFCC’s mission to transform lives and strengthen our communities through innovative, high-quality education. We are confident that her dynamic leadership will build on the college’s successes and guide SFCC into its next exciting chapter.”

Daugherty will join the SFCC and Sedalia community from Flint Hills Technical College in Emporia, Kansas, where she has been president since July 2021.

Daugherty served as vice chancellor of instruction and chief academic officer at Metropolitan Community College in Missouri. Other stops include Missouri State University and Ozarks Technical Community College.

Other positions over the course of her career include vice president of instruction, dean, faculty member, academic adviser and director of grants and an honors program.

She holds a Doctor of Education in educational leadership and policy analysis from the University of Missouri, a Master of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Arts in English and professional writing from Missouri State University. She also holds an executive leadership certificate from Cornell University. ​

“State Fair Community College has a long record of connecting with its students and its 14-county region,” Daughtery said. “I am honored to join the Roadrunner family and help lead it into its Connecting College and Community chapter. The College’s role as a community hub, from its K-12 partnerships to its support for student success, is one I take to heart. Together with our faculty, staff, students, and partners, I hope we can continue to advance access for transfer and workforce opportunities, so everyone we serve can work, learn and thrive.”