Growing up in a trailer with hardworking parents who did not go to college, the odds of earning a degree and breaking out of poverty seemed stacked against Rob Hedgpeth. But the first-generation college student from Rogersville, Missouri, and alumnus of Missouri State University, found a way. Thanks to his parents’ unwavering belief in the power of education, supportive … [Read more...] about Inspiring young minds with the power of coding
Since graduating with her biology degree from Missouri State University in 2018, Brittany Skaer has gone on to become a successful occupational therapist (OT). Skaer’s impressive career achievements and community contributions have not gone unnoticed. The Delta Zeta Sorority selected her as a 2024 recipient of the “35 Under 35” award. This national award recognizes … [Read more...] about Recognized for excellence in her profession
Many people wish they could talk to animals or at least understand what they are saying. Missouri State University biology alum Danny Zapata is doing the next best thing. He is becoming an expert in animal vocalizations across different species. Zapata’s Missouri Statement During his studies at MSU from 2020 to 2022, Colombia native Zapata studied how male and female … [Read more...] about Decoding the dialogue
For almost 40 years, the Ozark Land Trust (OLT) has protected more than 30,000 acres of Ozark lands across Missouri and Arkansas. As a land trust, OLT permanently conserves land for the public benefit and limits development to protect natural resources. Together, Missouri State University alumnae, Haley Smith and Taylor Dye, have made a big impact in preserving the … [Read more...] about Conservation close to home
Alice (Presley) Bodnar thought her path was laid out in front of her when she was studying chemistry at Missouri State. Little did she know that path would eventually become a hiking trail. Her career changes have taken her from the lab to the law — and now to the latest tech. She is one of the founders of the first-ever long-distance trail app, FarOut by FarOut … [Read more...] about Alumna is one of the developers of a popular app that helps people have long-distance adventures