Leigh Neier

Dr. Leigh Neier is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Educational, School & Counseling Psychology at the University of Missouri, College of Education. They hold a B.S. (2003), M.Ed (2004), and Ph.D. (2008), all from the University of Missouri, and are deeply engaged in teaching, leadership, and service within the university community.

Their research and expertise focus on enhancing well-being in educational and organizational settings. Key areas include athlete well-being, trauma-informed practices, positive psychology interventions, social and emotional learning, and human-centered design as a framework for systemic change. Dr. Neier emphasizes Self-Determination Theory and inclusive excellence through dialogue and reflection.

Dr. Neier has held significant leadership roles, including co-Chair of the COACHE Committee on Faculty Satisfaction, member of the Provost’s Enrollment Management Advisory Committee, and past Chair of the Intercollegiate Athletics Committee. These roles reflect their commitment to institutional improvement and faculty and student well-being.

Dr. Neier has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards:

• William T. Kemper Teaching Excellence Fellowship
• Provost’s Outstanding Junior Faculty Teaching Award
• Maxine Christopher Shutz Award and Lecture for Distinguished Teaching
• Honor tap for QEBH
• Four-time recipient of the College of Education’s Instructor of the Year award
• Inaugural recipient of the College of Education’s Commitment to Diversity Award
• Named to Como Magazine’s 20 Under 40 (2018)
• Provost’s Award for University Citizenship (2021)

While no publications or advisees are listed in the provided text, Dr. Neier's impact is evident through sustained teaching excellence, institutional leadership, and a strong commitment to equity, well-being, and community building. Their work bridges research, practice, and policy in education and psychology.