On March 30-31, Missouri State University will welcome peer reviewers from the Higher Learning Commission as part of our reaffirmation of accreditation process.

This visit is an important moment for our university. Accreditation through the HLC reflects our commitment to academic quality, institutional integrity and continuous improvement. It also affirms the value of a Missouri State education for our students, families and community.

At Missouri State, our mission calls us to be a community of citizen scholars dedicated to public affairs. That mission comes to life through excellent teaching, meaningful support for students and a campus culture grounded in ethical leadership, cultural competence and community engagement. Our HLC visit gives us an opportunity to reflect on that work and share it with our peer reviewers.

During the visit, the peer reviewers will hold open forums, and I encourage faculty, staff and students to participate. These forums are an important opportunity for our campus community to share experiences and help demonstrate the strength of Missouri State.

Thank you to everyone who has helped prepare for this visit and to those who will take part in the open forums. Your engagement reflects the very best of Missouri State.

Learn more about the proposed convention center

Living our public affairs mission means creating space for meaningful dialogue about issues that affect our community. On March 31, we’ll welcome Mark Hecquet, president and CEO of Visit Springfield, to campus for a public affairs forum about the proposed convention center.

The forum is 4 p.m. in Meyer Library, Room 101.

I appreciate the opportunity for our campus community to learn more, ask questions and engage thoughtfully in a conversation that’s important to Springfield’s future.

A well-deserved honor for Rachael Dockery

Congratulations to Rachael Dockery on being named a 2026 Women’s Justice Award honoree by Missouri Lawyers Media in the corporate category. This well-deserved recognition reflects her leadership and service to Missouri State. We’re proud of Rachael and grateful for her outstanding work on behalf of the university.

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

Biff