Judge Zac Horack joined the adjunct faculty at SEMO in 2017 instructing courses within the Department of Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Sociology, as well as the SEMO Law Enforcement Academy. He has instructed courses in Criminal Law, Criminal Courts, Constitutional Law, Constitutional Rights of Inmates, and Criminal Trial Preparation.

Away from campus, Zac serves as the Presiding Circuit Judge of Missouri’s 33rd Judicial Circuit for Scott and Mississippi Counties. He was appointed by Governor Parson in March 2024 and serves as the chief trial judge for the State of Missouri within the 33rd Circuit. Prior to his appointment, Zac was the Associate Circuit Judge for Scott County from 2019-2024. Zac had previously served as the HIDTA Prosecuting Attorney for Southeast Missouri as well as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Scott County.

Zac received his Juris Doctorate from Saint Louis University School of Law in 2015 with an emphasis in Criminal Litigation. Zac also received his Master of Public Health degree from the University of Missouri in 2012 with a research emphasis in Health Policy and Promotion. Zac’s undergraduate years were spent at Truman State University and the University of Missouri. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from MU in 2010. Zac’s undergraduate research focused on genetic mutation studies involving cystic fibrosis which resulted in publication in conjunction with Harvard Medical School.

Zac enjoys being active in his community and is passionate about encouraging young people to pursue careers in public service. He is an active member of the Sikeston Jaycees, a former board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Missouri, and a Specialist Instructor for the Missouri Department of Public Safety.