As I discover daily, the public affairs mission is an integral part of Missouri State University.

Paws to the Polls is a group within Public Affairs Support, that works to increase voter participation and offer unbiased resources for students to practice well-informed voting. It’s a grassroots initiative that’s all about taking action to make a difference.

Last week, the group held their fourth Voting Fair and registered over 275 voters with the help of Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller, faculty/college partners and volunteers.

They partnered with our Student Government Association to present “Conversations with Candidates,” where candidates from all parties were invited to campus for a meet-and-greet. We had more than 10 candidates participate.

Shane brought some voting machines to campus for students to try out and get comfortable with.

Voter registration closes tomorrow (Oct. 9). Paws to the Polls is tabling today and tomorrow between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the outdoor tables between the Plaster Student Union and Siceluff Hall to register eligible voters. Thanks to Dr. Suzanne Walker-Pacheco and her volunteers for their dedication to Paws to the Poll. They’re making a difference!

And, if you’re interested in assisting with the election, I learned at Good Morning, Springfield! last week that Greene County is in need of election judges.

A successful 21st Public Affairs Conference

This year’s Public Affairs Conference (PAC) wrapped up a couple of weeks ago. The theme was “Between the One and the Many: Considering Community and Individualism.” There were sessions available in-person and via Zoom.

It was an exciting week with record participation of 4,700-plus attendees (up 870 from last year) and 43 speakers and panelists from six different time zones! Take note that you can view recordings of panel sessions until Oct. 18. Congratulations and big thanks to Mary Ann Wood, Stacey Trewatha-Bach, Dr. John Schmalzbauer (2024-25 Public Affairs fellow) and the PAC Advisory Committee for organizing a successful and enlightening conference.

Finally, from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Oct. 16, Missouri State will host a U.S. Naturalization Ceremony at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. We expect 100-plus applicants will take the Oath of Allegiance and complete the process of becoming a United States citizen.  If you haven’t attended in the past, this is a moving ceremony and not one to be missed.

As you can see, our public affairs mission is alive and well.

Thanks for checking in. It’s a great day to be a Bear!

Biff