Hannibal‑LaGrange University (HLGU) is pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Kurt Haner as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Dr. Haner brings three decades of experience in finance education, leadership, and mission‑driven service and will begin his role on July 1, 2026.As Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Haner is responsible for planning and executing the University’s business operations and fiduciary responsibilities in support of HLGU’s educational mission. In collaboration with the President, he will provide oversight of the controller, student accounts, accounts payable, human resources, campus security and other campus operations, ensuring sound financial practices and operational effectiveness across the institution.
“Dr. Haner brings a wealth of experience as an entrepreneur, educator, and expert in finance to the role of CFO,” said HLGU President Dr. Robert Matz. “His degrees in business, technology, and higher education administration make him well qualified for this position. His sterling reputation, established network within our community and his strong Christian character make him an ideal fit to lead business operations at HLGU.”
A proud alumnus of Hannibal‑LaGrange University, Dr. Haner earned his Bachelor of Science in Education in Business Education from HLGU in 1996, graduating as salutatorian. He later earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology (2003) from the University of Missouri, followed by a Doctor of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis (2017) and a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis (2019), also from the University of Missouri in Columbia.
Dr. Haner has served as a business educator from 1996 to the present at Hannibal High School and the Hannibal Career and Technical Center (HCTC). Since 2008, his Finance Challenge students have placed top in Missouri and second in the Nation in 2013, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in financial education. He currently serves as the FBLA Advisor at HCTC. He has also taught as a dual credit instructor through Moberly Area Community College and has served the University of Missouri-Columbia on the doctoral board in the Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis program.
Dr. Haner’s leadership has been recognized with numerous honors, including being named Teacher of the Year in 2021 at the Hannibal Career and Technical Center. His community involvement includes service as President and Vice President of the Hannibal Community Teachers’ Association, coaching Upward Basketball, organizing and leading Finance Feud events where students compete against local bank presidents and financial planners, and mentoring students through financial education initiatives.
Dr. Haner shared his enthusiasm for the role, stating that after “30 successful years in finance education, I am excited to begin a new chapter where I can apply my skills, experience, and passion for finance beyond the classroom. I am motivated to contribute to HLGU while supporting the mission of the organization.”
Dr. Haner is a member of Gideons International and serves as a children’s church teacher, small group leader, and building committee member at Harvest Bible Church in Hannibal, MO. He demonstrates a vibrant personal Christian faith and active involvement in evangelical church life.
Dr. Haner resides in Hannibal, Missouri, with his wife, Dr. Jenni Haner, and family. He and his wife are the parents of three children and the grandparents of one grandson. Dr. Jenni Haner has served as an adjunct instructor in HLGU’s master’s program and has led summer Science Camp at HLGU for community children.
Hannibal‑LaGrange University looks forward to welcoming Dr. Haner on July 1, 2026, as the institution continues to advance its Christ‑centered mission through faithful stewardship and service.