Last week Gov. Mike Parson was on campus to sign the Fast Track bill.

The Fast Track program was created in 2019. The program addresses workforce needs by helping adults pursue a certificate, degree or industry-recognized credential in an area designated as high need.

Fast Track is an important tool for educating non-traditional students. For students who qualify, the program can provide them with the opportunity to obtain a degree at little or no cost.

For our students who are working full-time, taking care of a family and managing a full slate of life responsibilities, this program can make the difference between getting by or earning a degree and getting ahead.

This year’s bill extended the sunset and made significant improvements to the Fast Track program. Improvements include increasing the number of eligible training providers and removing forgivable loan components, making Fast Track a true grant program.

I want to thank Gov. Parson for his leadership in renewing and improving the Fast Track program. I also want to thank Sen. Lincoln Hough for sponsoring this important bill and supporting students in need.

Many programs, priorities and projects funded this session

The Fast Track bill is just one example of the successes for higher education this legislative session.

Other examples include:

• Fully funding state scholarship programs.
• A 5.4% core funding increase for colleges and universities.
• $31.5 million for MoExcels grants.
• $460 million in capital projects at colleges and universities.

The state’s budget includes more than $40 million for projects on MSU’s Springfield and West Plains campuses.

This level of support for higher education would not have been possible without the leadership of Gov. Parson and our legislative delegation. I hope you will take the opportunity to thank them for their work.

Thanks for all you do for Missouri State!