Kim K. Finch

Dr. Kim K. Finch serves as Associate Professor and Educational Leadership Program Director at Missouri State University's School of Special Education Leadership and Professional Studies, where she shapes future educational administrators through rigorous academic training and practical leadership development.

Her academic foundation includes:

• EdD from University of Missouri (1991)
• Specialist in Educational Administration from Missouri State University (1987)
• MS in Guidance and Counseling from Missouri State University (1983)
• BS in English Education from Missouri State University (1979)

Her scholarly focus centers on transformative educational leadership practices, principal development, and systemic improvement in K-12 administration. Through courses like EAD 788 (Action Research) and EAD 785 (Legal and Ethical Contexts), she bridges theoretical frameworks with real-world school leadership challenges, emphasizing ethical decision-making and evidence-based supervision methodologies.

Dr. Finch's professional excellence has been recognized through numerous honors:

• MSU Young Alumni Award
• Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Young Alumni
• Missouri State University 95 to Watch in 95
• Star Catcher Award from Dr. Jack Ernst
• Gifted Educator Award from Phelps Center for the Gifted
• Grand Worthy Advisor of Missouri (Order of the Rainbow for Girls)