Jackson Kuria

The first-ever meeting of African students in Missouri State University and the African community in Springfield happened on 7th March 2025. The meeting attracted the African faculties in Missouri State University, the International Programs leadership, and the SGF African community.

Paula Moore, the Assistant Vice President of GEE and Faculty Advisor for the East African Students Association, while welcoming the community members affirmed Missouri State University’s support for international students and the Synergy Circle initiative.

A panel discussion was part of the activity aimed at making the community aware of the increased student population, their needs and challenges while in school, and the need to support them get integrated into the working community after graduation.

Representing the community was Engineer James Okumu, a celebrated engineer at City Utilities and MSU alumni, while the faculty was ably represented by Dr. Theresa Odun-Ayo, Director of the Cooperative Engineering Program. Prof. Benjamin Onyango hailed the coming together as a testament to a shared vision by the community and expressed support. He was flanked by Dr. Adam Wanekaya, the Head of Chemistry & Biochemistry, who has been instrumental in promoting MSU to African students.

This was not just an event but a day to lay a foundation and strategies for how the community will work with Missouri State University to enhance the resources and opportunities offered to international students.

It is time for the community to find ways to connect with the students, and nothing provides a better platform than the Synergy Circle. Connect, Inspire, Thrive.

Keep it here to know what follows!