Gov. Michael Parson has announced his appointment of Elizabeth Motazedi, a senior from Joplin, Missouri, who is majoring in social studies-history education, as Northwest Missouri State University’s next student regent.

The appointment is effective immediately and confirmed by the Missouri Senate. Motazedi's term ends Dec. 31, 2023, although she may choose to serve until she graduates or another student is appointed in her place. She fills the seat vacated by Connor Thompson, who graduated from Northwest last year.

Motazedi serves as president of Northwest’s 2022-23 Student Senate and recently was elected to a second term as president for 2023-24. She also is active in Phi Mu sorority and served on the University’s Presidential Search Committee.

Northwest’s Board of Regents is responsible for sound resource management of the University and determining general, educational and financial policies. According to state statutes, one member of the Board must be a non-voting student representative.