St. Louis Business 500: Q&A with John R. Porter, Lindenwood University

After 33 years at IBM, Porter brought his business acumen to higher education, guiding Lindenwood through a period of major growth and innovation: Through the Lindenwood Education System, the university has grown from 7,000 students to more than 17,000. “We have the opportunity to not only serve our traditional students at Lindenwood University, but we are excited about serving the 40 million adults who have some college credit but no degree,” Porter says. “This is a huge focus for us, as LES expands our program offerings with intentionality and in response to industry demands.”

2026 QUESTIONNAIRE

PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

What has been your/your company’s most significant success over the past 12 months? Over the last 12 months, LES made its second acquisition in as many years. With diversified offerings, LES can serve students going into vocational studies as well as traditional higher education. The system has grown from approximately 7,000 students to more than 17,000 students through on-ground and on-demand education.

What has you most excited about the future of your company or industry? Through LES, we have the opportunity to not only serve our traditional students at Lindenwood University, but we are excited about serving the 40 million adults who have some college credit but no degree. This is a huge focus for us as LES expands our program offerings with intentionality, and in response to industry demands.

What advice would you give to the next generation of St. Louis entrepreneurs or leaders? Take responsible risk. Get others on board with you in sharing your vision. Help others be successful and that will also help you.

BACKGROUND

What educational degrees do you hold, and where were they earned? EdD, Education and Entrepreneurial Leadership, Johns Hopkins University; EMBA, Olin School of Business at Washington University in St. Louis; BA, Communications, Evangel University