ROLLA, Mo. – Robert Berkelman has been elevated to assistant athletic director for athletics operations after serving the past 15 months as the athletic operations coordinator. 

Berkelman joined the Missouri S&T athletic department in December of 2022 to coordinating ticket gates, concessions, and game management for athletic contests and special events at S&T.  Robert has successfully taken on numerous additional responsibilities since his initial appointment and has spent time learning and training in a multitude of areas within the department.  He oversees the athletic work study and student worker programs within the department and he is responsible for several budgetary processes including expenses reports, vouchers, and creating requisitions. 

"Robert made an immediate impact when he joined the department in 2022, " Ringhausen said.  "He was quick to learn and master the immediate needs we had in the department and he is always willing to lend a helping hand.  With such a small administrative staff, a willingness to help in other areas and with a positive attitude goes a long ways.    Robert impresses me every day with his reliable and consistent work.  His role within the department will continue to grow in this new position."   

Berkelman started his tenure at Missouri S&T in 2002 in the cashier's office as an accounting and fiscal services specialist later transitioning to the senior student support specialist in student financial assistance.  In this position, Berkelman coordinated the federal work study program for the university, providing opportunities for more than 150 students earning over $350,000 and he oversaw and reviewed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) program.  He administered several state funded programs awarding financial aid to over 2,400 students at S&T.   He was responsible for ensuring all federal and state funded programs were awarded accurately and in compliance.
 
Prior to joining the athletic department full-time, Berkelman often assisted the athletic department in ticket sales and event management for athletic contests and special events.