Klebba Activity Center Dedication

Published on February 4, 2026

State Tech Dedicates Klebba Activity Center in Honor of Regent John Klebba

State Technical College of Missouri formally dedicated the Klebba Activity Center on Thursday, January 29, recognizing John Klebba for his thirty years of service on the State Tech Board of Regents, including more than two decades as Board President.

The dedication ceremony brought together campus leadership, Board members, faculty, staff, students, and community members to celebrate Klebba’s lasting impact on the institution and its growth into a nationally recognized leader in technical education. The event was planned as a surprise, with Klebba unaware of the dedication until the ceremony itself. A large crowd of family members, friends, colleagues, and campus partners gathered to surprise him and share in the recognition.

Klebba was nominated to the State Tech Board of Regents by Governor Mel Carnahan in December 1995 and confirmed by the Missouri Senate in January 1996. He officially began his service at his first Board of Regents meeting on July 1, 1996. In June 2000, Klebba was elected Vice President of the Board for the first time, and in June 2003, he was elected President of the Board. He has served continuously as Board President since that June 2003 election.

Throughout his tenure, Klebba has provided steady, disciplined leadership, emphasizing long-term vision, fiscal responsibility, and governance rooted in the College’s mission to serve students and Missouri’s workforce needs. His leadership played a key role during the College’s evolution from Linn State Technical College to State Technical College of Missouri, reflecting an expanded statewide mission and growing responsibility.

During the ceremony, State Tech President Dr. Shawn Strong reflected on Klebba’s influence over the past decade, noting his role in enabling campus growth, major capital projects, and continued national recognition. Under Klebba’s leadership, the campus has experienced significant expansion in facilities, student enrollment, and academic offerings, helping position State Tech as one of the top-ranked two-year colleges in the nation.

Vice President of the Board of Regents Steve Sellenriek also addressed the importance of thoughtful governance and Klebba’s commitment to the Board’s responsibilities. He emphasized Klebba’s consistent preparation, willingness to ask difficult questions, and focus on maintaining the institution’s mission for the long term.

As part of the ceremony, a proclamation from Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe was read by Representative Bruce Sassman, formally recognizing Klebba’s three decades of exemplary public service and acknowledging the naming of the Activity Center in his honor. The proclamation highlighted Klebba’s role in advancing academic programs, expanding facilities, strengthening employer partnerships, and supporting a comprehensive student experience at State Tech.

The Klebba Activity Center serves as a central hub for student engagement, campus life, and community connection. Naming the facility in Klebba’s honor reflects his enduring belief in the importance of a well-rounded student experience and the role of community in higher education.

A reception followed the dedication ceremony, allowing attendees to celebrate Klebba’s legacy and the continued momentum of State Technical College of Missouri.