Ah summertime…

Summer on a college campus is a really lovely and special time. The fountains are flowing, flowers are blooming, the aroma of freshly cut grass is everywhere, and tour groups of eager prospective students cover the campus – infecting everyone with their enthusiasm. After the frenetic pace of the spring semester, the campus community enjoys the chance to stop, reflect, and plan for the next year. Here in the College of Natural and Applied Sciences, we are already preparing for a spectacular 2009-2010.
One of our priorities will be funding equipment needs for our college. To prepare future scientists, we need to maintain the most state-of-the-art equipment possible. Unfortunately, this is very expensive, and the belt-tightening of the day has made it even more difficult to remain ahead in the field of technology. In order to meet this deficit, Dean Jahnke has made a personal commitment that for every five dollars donated toward our equipment fund (Account Number #R4814) she will personally match a dollar (up to $5000). How is that for committed leadership? Surely we can honor her challenge with an appropriate response!

Another priority we will have is continuing to improve the quantity and quality of scholarships for our students. While Missouri State is a great value in comparison to other four year universities – it is very difficult for many families to afford. Rather than face this burden, some students are choosing to leave or even fore go college –further compromising their financial security. As a graduate of Missouri State, you have already chosen once to invest in higher education – a gift today can help our students afford to make the same wise decision.
Finally, for those of you who still consider Temple Hall the “new” science building, look forward to some much needed upgrades this fall, and a grand re-opening of the original science building, Siceluff Hall. As part of this extensive project, there are several opportunities for you to get involved. What better way to commemorate a favorite professor or memory of the Science building than by naming a classroom or office space? With four floors to consider, there are many opportunities available, and we would love to include you as part of this historic renovation.
For more information about any of the opportunities listed above, or any others you may be considering, please don’t hesitate to contact me – jtrussell@missouristate.edu!