Gov. Jay Nixon appointed O. Victor Lenz, Jr., Ph.D., from the 2nd Congressional District, St. Louis, to the Missouri State Board of Education.

Dr. Lenz has served as a teacher and administrator at Lindbergh Schools, ending his career with the district as assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction. He also served as president of the Missouri School Boards Association from 2011 to 2012. Lenz is currently the president of the Lindbergh Schools Board of Education, and in compliance with Missouri law, he will step down from the Lindbergh Board to serve on the State Board of Education.

"We are pleased to have Dr. Lenz as a member of the State Board of Education," said Commissioner of Education Chris L. Nicastro. "Dr. Lenz has worked closely with the Department on several of our recent advisory committees, including the Missouri School Improvement Program. His nearly 40 years in public education will bring a wealth of knowledge and perspective to the State Board, and we look forward to his help in reaching our Top 10 by 20 goals."

Lenz has a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Central Methodist College, a Master of Science degree in Counselor Education from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, and a Doctorate in Educational Administration from St. Louis University.

Lenz's appointment is subject to confirmation by the Missouri Senate, but he will begin serving on the State Board of Education immediately. The Governor has appointed him for a term ending July 1, 2019.