On a snowy Thursday morning in the presidential office suite, I got to speak with Dr. Robert Mock about his new role and learn about how he is settling into a rhythm he says will guide his first months leading Peru State College: listen, learn and lean into the community that surrounds Nebraska’s First College.
“Several things drew me to Peru State College,” Mock said, ticking off a blend of professional fit and personal connection. He cited a 30-year career largely in public higher education institutions, the school’s historic role as the origin of higher education in Nebraska and what he called a “complete” campus experience — from online programs to athletics and even an on-campus daycare. “Those are the things that really drew me to Peru State College.”
A Midwesterner by birth, Mock said his ties to the region helped draw him to Peru as well. He grew up in Urbana- Champaign, Illinois, a Big Ten college town he compared to Lincoln, and said being closer to family after a career that included stops outside the region is meaningful. His mother worked as a head daycare administrator, he noted, which fed into his appreciation for the college’s childcare services. Mock is taking the role outside the office as much as possible. He has launched what he calls a “listening tour,” moving meetings across campus so leaders and administrators see facilities firsthand and students and staff get face time with top administrators.
