Robert Dager served more than two decades at Truman State University retiring as head of the Division of Business and Accountancy in June 1999. He came to Truman as an assistant professor of business and was promoted to full professor before being named head of the division in 1977. In 1989-90, he served as interim president of the University. During his tenure, he also served as acting head of the Division of Education, directed the John R. Kirk Honors Institute and oversaw the University Career Center. He also chaired the committee for the renovation of Violette Hall.

Dager also serves the Kirksville community. He received the Kirksville Area Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame Award in 1999 and was named Kiwanian of the Year in 1981 and Citizen of the Year in 1980. He has served as president of Kiwanis Club, vice president of Chariton Valley Association for Handicapped Citizens, director of Northeast Missouri State Bank and a board member of the United Way.