Barbara Caton, center, associate professor of nursing at Missouri State University-West Plains will retire from her position on Feb. 1, 2024, after 33 years with the university. Caton was hired as a lecturer on Dec. 3, 1991, and appointed as an instructor on Aug. 14, 2000. She was promoted to assistant professor and received tenure on Aug. 12, 2002. On Aug. 16, 2021, she was promoted to associate professor. Caton served as director of nursing/division chair from Aug. 1, 2011, to May 31, 2012, and as coordinator of nursing programs from Aug. 15, 2016, to Dec. 15, 2023. Presenting her with a framed certificate noting her years of service is Chancellor Dennis Lancaster, left, and with a plaque praising her for her dedication to teaching students is Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Dr. Michael Orf.
