Renee Porter, PhD, MBA, PMP, SHRM-SCP, SHRM-CP
Renee Porter, PhD, MBA, PMP, SHRM-SCP, SHRM-CP, is a seasoned business school professor, academic leader, and administrator with more than two decades of experience in higher education. She currently serves as Professor of Management at Lindenwood University’s Robert W. Plaster College of Business and Entrepreneurship, where she is known for her commitment to student success, innovative teaching, and practical, career-focused education. Her expertise spans management, human resources, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness.
In addition to her faculty role, Dr. Porter has held numerous senior leadership positions, including Associate Dean of the School of Business and Entrepreneurship and Campus Provost. She also previously served as Director of Online Programs for the School of Business and Technology at Webster University, where she played a key role in expanding and strengthening online education initiatives. Her professional background includes extensive experience in curriculum development, instructional design, academic advising, nonprofit organizations, and human resources development, blending academic rigor with real-world application.
Dr. Porter holds a PhD in Educational Studies with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction from Saint Louis University and an MBA from Southern Illinois University–Edwardsville. She is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and holds both SHRM-SCP and SHRM-CP credentials. An entrepreneur and United States Air Force veteran, she brings a disciplined, mission-driven perspective to her work. Beyond academia, Dr. Porter has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service, including serving on the Fort Zumwalt Board of Education, reflecting her dedication to education, leadership, and lifelong learning.
• PMP
• SHRM-SCP
• SHRM-CP
• Saint Louis University - Ph.D.
• Society of Human Resouce Management
• American Educational Research Association (AERA)
• Project Management Institute
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a lifelong passion for teaching, service, and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Early in my career, I served as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, where I taught technical training—an experience that reinforced my love for education and developing others.
In my forties, while raising young children, I earned my PhD and made the difficult decision to leave a job I loved to pursue opportunities aligned with my long-term purpose. Today, I work at an institute I deeply value, where I evaluate schools, support professional deployments, and prepare and teach classes. I also hold a Master of Business Administration and two associate degrees, which have strengthened my ability to contribute strategically and operationally.
Above all, my success is rooted in hard work, persistence, and a genuine love for higher education. I take pride in my work, remain committed to helping my organization succeed, and continue to be driven by the belief that education has the power to transform lives.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never stop learning.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is supporting schools through effective professional development that leads to long-term success. Ensuring educators are well-prepared, continuously supported, and equipped to adapt to evolving standards and student needs is critical to strengthening school performance and outcomes.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life center on honoring legacy, service, and purpose. I value preserving history and connection through genealogy, which has been especially meaningful to me, including my goal of publishing a book in honor of my mother after her passing.
I am also deeply committed to service, particularly my work with the Veterans Commission, where I am able to give back to those who have served. Whether professionally or personally, I am driven by respect, dedication, and a desire to make a lasting, positive impact.
Locations
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MO 63301