Health and Human Services News

Archives for May 2024

Showcasing May awards for the 2023-2024 school year

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McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) is home to many brilliant and hardworking staff and faculty. This May, we recognize a few who went above and beyond to grow in their roles.  

Their dedication not only advances their personal and professional growth, but significantly enhances the quality of education and service within the college. These individuals exemplify the values and mission of MCHHS, setting a high standard for their peers. 

Faculty/staff nominated awards 

  • BEAR-illiant Researcher Award: Dr. Wafaa Kaf 
  • Teamwork Trailblazers Award: Interprofessional Education (IPE) Collaboration 

MCHHS Inclusive Excellence Challenge Champions 

Student nominated awards 

  • Outstanding Undergraduate Academic Advisor: 

MCHHS recognition – Dean’s awards 

  • The Unsung Heroes: MCHHS Custodial Staff 
  • Academic Partnership: 

Professorships 

  • Roy D. Blunt Life Science Professorship: 

Xie, a recipient of the Roy D. Blunt Life Science Professorship, is spearheading a four-year research project titled “Cultivate Children’s Wellbeing through Dual-Component Intervention.”  

This project aims to address developmental delays among children aged 3-5 from low-income families in Springfield. By focusing on enhancing social-emotional and fundamental motor skills, the initiative seeks to promote lifelong resilience and well-being through a preventive and sustainable approach. 

“Well-being is a critical life outcome everyone strives for. Adversity and challenges are inevitable in life, which requires us to be resilient and positive,” said Xie, assistant professor of kinesiology.  

“However, resilience and well-being don’t come naturally; they need to be learned and developed over time. MSU has numerous disciplines that can contribute meaningfully to our community. This research-based initiative has great potential to improve children’s development.” 

Commitment to excellence 

These awards highlight the exceptional work of the MCHHS community at Missouri State University. Congratulations to all award recipients! 

Learn more about MCHHS

Celebrating the future of audiology

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On April 27, 2024, Missouri State University celebrated the White Coat Ceremony for the Doctorate of Audiology class of 2025. This momentous occasion marked the transition of 11 dedicated students as they prepare to embark on their externship year, the final step toward earning their doctorate degree. 

A day of celebration 

Surrounded by family, friends, peers and faculty, the ceremony was a joyous occasion.  

“This is a wonderful celebration and acknowledgement of the students’ hard work and dedication,” said Dr. Sarah Jones, clinical associate professor. “The white coat is indicative of their preparedness and a foundation in audiology to advance to this final stage.” 

Looking ahead 

While the university community will miss seeing these students on campus, there is great excitement for their future endeavors.  

“It’s likely the next time we will see them together as a group will be when they walk at graduation next spring and receive their hooding,” Jones said. 

Support and encouragement 

The White Coat Ceremony not only celebrates the achievements of the students, but also reflects the support and encouragement from those who have been integral to their journey.  

“One thing that makes the ceremony special is the students get to share this event with their family and friends whether in-person or virtually,” said Dr. Edith Bobbit-Boyce, faculty advisor for the MSU Student Academy of Audiology (SAA) organization. 

Missouri State looks forward to the continued success of these future audiologists as they step into their professional roles and make a positive impact in the field of audiology. 

Explore degrees in communication sciences and disorders   

How to establish a well-rounded fitness routine

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May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Whether you’re new to exercise or a marathon runner, establishing a good physical fitness program is important to your overall well-being.  

Exercise can help prevent chronic issues and lead to a lifetime of health. Dr. Barbara Bushman is faculty emeritus in the kinesiology department at Missouri State University. She speaks to how a good physical fitness program is the key to being the healthiest version of yourself. 

The keys to establishing a fitness program

Read the full transcript

Kinesiology professor appointed to board of Arvest Bank

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Dr. Algerian Hart’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, along with his community involvement, led to his appointment on the Springfield board of Arvest Bank.  

Hart holds positions as assistant to the president for inclusive engagement and professor of kinesiology at MSU.  

With his personal values and Arvest’s commitment to community engagement, this appointment is a perfect match. 

Bettering the community 

Arvest Bank stands out for its dedication to community welfare and inclusivity.   

“The bank’s community involvement, from supporting nonprofits to promoting entrepreneurship, aligns with my intentions to create a diverse community,” Hart said.  

Hart’s appointment to the Arvest board reflects the bank’s values of people-first leadership.   

Arvest prioritizes empowering people over seeking recognition. This approach shows a real dedication to helping the community, with a focus on uplifting others. 

“They’re behind the scenes, looking to propel other individuals,” Hart said.    

Catalysts for change  

Arvest, under its distinguished leadership and board, serve as a catalyst for positive change.   

“I firmly believe Arvest’s dedication to being curators of dreams provides the support and resources needed for a thriving community,” Hart said.   

This philosophy resonates with Hart’s own values of access, inclusion and opportunity.   

Learn more about kinesiology