Welcome back, Bears. I hope you enjoyed the winter break and had a chance to rest, recharge and spend time with those who matter most. As we begin a new year and a fresh semester together, there’s a lot of momentum to build on — and plenty of exciting things to look forward to. A great deal happened while we were gone. 

Bear athletics 

Let’s start by celebrating our Bear athletes. Congratulations to our football team on a historic season that culminated in an invitation to the inaugural Xbox Bowl. The Bears rallied for 21 fourth-quarter points before falling 34-28 to Arkansas State. The effort highlighted the heart and resilience of this program as MO State completed its first season at the FBS level. I also want to thank the Pride Band for bringing energy, spirit and countless hours of preparation to the national stage. 

Speaking of football, we’re also excited to welcome Casey Woods as the 23rd head football coach in program history. Woods, most recently offensive coordinator and football chief of staff at Southern Methodist University, was officially approved by the Board of Governors and formally introduced yesterday.  

Our basketball programs also carried that momentum into the new year. As of early January, the men’s basketball team holds a 9-5 overall record and is off to a 3-0 start in Conference USA play, riding a five-game winning streak. The women’s basketball team also stands at 9-5 overall with a 1-0 start in CUSA. 

As we start the semester, cheering on our Bear athletes offers a great way to connect and celebrate our shared pride. 

Staff Appreciation Luncheon 

I also want to recognize our dedicated staff. Tomorrow, we will gather for the Staff Appreciation Luncheon and Service Awards. This is a special moment to honor your commitment and the positive impact you make on our campus every day. Thank you for your service and for everything you do to support our mission. 

Winter Week of Welcome 

Next week, Winter Week of Welcome will help set the tone for a strong beginning this semester. Hosted by the office of student engagement in partnership with campus colleagues, Winter Week of Welcome will take place Jan. 12–15 and is designed to help students reconnect, get involved and feel supported as they return to campus. 

Creating spaces where students feel welcome is central to who we are as a public affairs university. These early-semester experiences encourage community engagement and align with our strategic plan’s focus on enhancing the student experience and fostering a sense of belonging from day one. 

Looking ahead 

Looking ahead on the campus calendar, one beloved tradition returning this spring is Fountain Day. This annual celebration marks the joyful moment when the John Q. Hammons Fountain is turned back on for the season, signaling warmer days and a renewed sense of community.  

Fountain Day embodies the spirit we carry into the new semester — a reminder of hope, renewal and the traditions that connect us as Bears. Other signature events like Spring Family Day at Hammons Field offer great chances to gather with students, families and friends.  

This semester brings new opportunities to learn and achieve after a well-deserved break. As we begin 2026 together, I’m energized by what’s ahead and grateful for the Bear spirit that makes Missouri State such a special place. 

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

Biff