Health and Human Services News

Opening doors to global learning

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Global learning often starts in a new place and grows through experience, curiosity, reflection and connection.  

That spirit drives Missouri State University’s Education Abroad Faculty Fellows Program.  

Two faculty members from the McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) were among eight faculty members selected for the 2026 cohort: Dr. Leslie Echols, professor of psychology in the School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, and Alison Alaimo, clinical assistant professor in the School of Nursing. The group includes representation from each of the university’s colleges.

This initiative supports faculty in developing, implementing and leading faculty-directed education abroad programs. It offers a dynamic learning opportunity for faculty members to enhance their global engagement, foster cultural immersion and create meaningful educational experiences for students. 

A chance to expand students’ learning 

For both faculty members, the selection is more than a professional milestone. It creates new opportunities for MCHHS students to explore how culture, systems and daily life impact health and well-being through a global lens.

Alison Alaimo
Alison Alaimo

According to Alaimo, this program supports the kind of learning she values most. 

In nursing, experiential learning helps students grow through labs, clinicals and simulations. Alaimo sees education abroad as a natural extension of that approach.  

“Education abroad aligns with my personal educational philosophy, considering the importance of experiential learning,” Alaimo said. “This type of learning develops critical thinking skills and deepens understanding.” 

While Echols shares that excitement, she also feels a deep sense of responsibility. For her, the program is a chance to learn the process up close before taking students abroad. 

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to see how a great program is run before leading a group of students on my own,” Echols said. 

For several years, she hoped to offer psychology students an education abroad experience. Participation in the Education Abroad Faculty Fellows Program will give her the confidence to move forward. 

Why it matters for students 

Dr. Leslie Echols headshot
Dr. Leslie Echols

Both faculty members view education abroad as more than travel. It is a chance to broaden perspectives, deepen understanding and prepare students for a changing world. 

“The students we’re training now will become the health care leaders shaping policy in the future,” Alaimo said. “Hopefully, seeing how health care works in another place will influence them to make it more affordable and accessible in the United States.” 

Echols believes experiences like education abroad enable psychology students to step outside their usual way of thinking and explore different ways of approaching problems. 

“When you go abroad or even if you just go to another town or region, you get outside of whatever your norm is,” Echols said. “You see people doing things differently than you do.” 

That kind of perspective matters in every field connected to human care. It helps students become more reflective, adaptable and globally aware.  

What the program entails  

Now in its second year, the Education Abroad Faculty Fellows Program includes: 

  • A series of interactive workshops designed to connect fellows with essential education abroad resources and equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to develop impactful global learning experiences 
  • An eight-day travel experience to Barcelona, Spain, that is focused on sustainability. 

At a recent sustainability workshop, Echols realized the concept was broader than she had imagined. She was especially struck by the 17 themes aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting not just environmental resources but also human well-being, including mental health.

“We’re thrilled to support these faculty members in their journey to create global learning experiences that not only enrich students’ academic careers but also foster greater global awareness and responsibility,” said  Elizabeth Strong, director of the office of education abroad. “Through the Fellows Program, we aim to empower faculty to create programs that have a lasting impact on students’ education and personal growth.” 

Explore MCHHS

Staff spotlight: Elizabeth Burrough

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Our featured McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) staff member is Elizabeth Burrough. She is the admissions coordinator for the School of Nursing.

Let’s get to know more about her.

Where are you originally from?

I’m from the area! I grew up in the middle of the country west of town, so my family and I came to Springfield very often. I went to school in Miller, Missouri, and moved to Springfield for college.

What brought you to Missouri State University and how long have you been here?

I came to Missouri State as a non-traditional student to complete my bachelor’s degree in 2018. I started working as a student worker in the School of Nursing and loved it so much I never left! This next year will be my seventh year at Missouri State.

What’s your educational background?

I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Missouri State in 2019. I’m still considering what graduate programs I’d like to pursue.

What do you do in your role at MCHHS?

As the admissions coordinator for the School of Nursing, I support students as they prepare to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. I have the opportunity to connect with prospective students and their families who are exploring Missouri State and nursing by providing tours, hosting meetings and answering questions. Once students are accepted, I guide them through the next steps of the admission process and help them transition smoothly into the program.

Why did you choose your area of work?

This path kind of found me. I had always imagined I would go into counseling, but early in my career, I was still figuring out exactly what I wanted to do. After working in the School of Nursing, I discovered how much I enjoy being in an educational setting and connecting with students. I strongly believe in the power of education and in helping people achieve their goals, so I feel incredibly grateful to have found a role that aligns so well with that.

What do you enjoy most about your job in MCHHS?

Elizabeth Burrough and her daughter
Burrough and her daughter.

The people. I work with some of the kindest people who are passionate about education and nursing. I also really enjoy interacting with our students and helping them with their goals of becoming a nurse.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the spring?

Spring is one of my favorite times of year! I try to spend as much time outdoors as possible. One of the things I love to do is planting and tending my flower garden with my daughter.

What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?

I love mini golf! It’s my very favorite thing to do anytime the weather is nice. My family and I go often, and are always looking for interesting, new courses to visit.

Learn more about the School of Nursing

Celebrating the next generation of health care professionals

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The McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) proudly celebrates its students’ achievements. 

Nearly 400 students will graduate this December. Many participated in department or school ceremonies, where they were hooded, pinned and/or received a white coat. 

“William Shakespeare once said, ‘It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves.’ This reminder feels especially meaningful as we celebrate the accomplishments of our students,” said Dr. Letitia White Minnis, MCHHS associate dean. 

She added that each graduation ceremony reflects a moment of transition.  

“On behalf of the MCHHS, I want to congratulate all students celebrating important milestones, whether it be a white coat ceremony, a pinning ceremony or graduation. These achievements reflect your dedication and hard work. We look forward to the positive impact you’ll make in your profession and the communities you serve.” 

These ceremonies mark key academic milestones for students at different stages in their programs. Hooding and pinning recognize progress toward degree completion, while white coat ceremonies represent the transition into clinical rotations.  

The programs 

Occupational Therapy  

Nursing 

Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) 

  • Twenty-six SLP students were pinned this December. The ceremony recognizes their readiness to begin clinical rotations ahead of spring graduation. 

Physician Assistant Studies (PAS) 

  • Thirty-three PAS students received white coats as they transitioned into clinical training, while another cohort of 33 students graduated this fall. 

Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) 

  • DNAP CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) students celebrated their program completion at a graduation ceremony, with 21 graduates this year – 15 in August and six in December. 

Counseling program 

Psychology 

MCHHS remains committed to supporting students as they move from classroom learning into professional practice. These new graduates and trainees will strengthen communities and contribute to the future of the health and human services workforce. 

Explore MCHHS programs

A decade of caring for underserved communities

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On Oct. 15, the Missouri State University Care Clinic celebrated its 10th anniversary with leaders from Mercy and community members.  

The clinic opened in 2015 on campus to provide free health services and medications for underserved and uninsured patients. Since then, it has served more than 33,000 patients through a wide range of services, expanding primary care access for Springfield neighbors.  

Milestone grounded in community care 

Connie Sayre has served at the clinic since day one. 

“I love that we’re here to care for our patients and that Missouri State and Mercy have teamed up to make sure our most vulnerable patients have access to care,” she said. 

The clinic provides primary care, vaccines, pharmacy counseling, nutrition guidance, lab tests and electrocardiograms. It also offers in-clinic procedures, such as wound care, suture removal, ear irrigation and nebulizer support. 

Many visitors cannot afford traditional primary care or have delayed care; some are homeless or lack transportation.   

“Our goal is to provide a medical home for our patients who often don’t fit into the traditional health care model,” said Clinic Manager Justin Gassel.  

In September 2024, services expanded to include Medicaid patients. The clinic currently sees an average of 210 patients per month. 

A successful training site and collaborative network

Dr. Mark Smith (at the podium) delivers his remarks.
Dr. Mark Smith (at the podium) delivers his remarks.

Staffed by providers from Missouri State and Mercy, the clinic also serves as a training site for students in the university’s physician assistant, pharmacy, dietetics and nursing programs. 

In addition to primary care services, the clinic provides essential resources, including hygiene kits, groceries and winter clothing. These items are made possible through organizations like Community Partnership of the Ozarks, Convoy of Hope, Mercy Health Foundation and Ozarks Food Harvest. 

“Hosting the MSU Care Clinic is an honor that exemplifies Missouri State’s public affairs mission in action,” said Dr. Mark Smith, dean of the McQueary College of Health and Human Services. 

“This clinic gives our students invaluable hands-on experience while equipping them with the knowledge and skills to serve others as future health care professionals. At the same time, our community’s neediest members benefit from quality, accessible care, demonstrating that lasting impact happens when education, compassion and community partnerships work hand in hand.” 

Check out the MSU Care Clinic