Dr. Michael Bruening, associate professor of history and political science, has been named interim chair of the department, effective Thursday, Aug. 1.

Bruening will step in for Dr. Shannon Fogg, chair and professor of history and political science, who has been named interim associate dean of academic affairs for the College of Arts, Sciences, and Business. That appointment is also effective Aug.1.

Bruening joined the Missouri S&T faculty in 2007 as assistant professor. He was named associate professor and interim chair of history and political science in 2012 and served as interim chair until 2013.

Bruening is a historian of medieval and early modern Europe who specializes in the Reformation. He has authored three published books and several book chapters in his areas of expertise.

He earned a Ph.D. in history from the University of Arizona in 2002, and master of arts and bachelor of arts degrees in history from the University of Virginia in 1994 and 1992, respectively.

Bruening is completing his term as president of Missouri S&T’s Faculty Senate, where he has held other leadership roles since 2014. He has received numerous Missouri S&T Faculty Excellence and Outstanding Teaching Awards.