This time of year, our campus is filled with something special: possibility.

Throughout the summer, thousands of future Bears and their families visit Missouri State University through SOAR and Summer Visit Days. For many of them, these experiences are their first real introduction to our university community. Long before classes begin, they’re forming impressions about who we are and what it means to be a Bear.

And those impressions matter.

When students and families arrive on campus, they notice more than our beautiful grounds, modern facilities and academic programs. They notice how they’re treated. They notice whether people smile, offer directions, answer questions and make them feel welcome.

Every hello matters. That’s where each of us comes in.

One of the greatest strengths of Missouri State is our people. Time and again, prospective students and their families tell us how welcoming our campus feels. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because staff and faculty take pride in what we do and genuinely care about helping others succeed.

SOAR is one of the best examples of that commitment and creating a positive experience takes an extraordinary team effort. I want to thank the staff and faculty who dedicate their time and energy throughout the summer to make SOAR a success. Whether you’re leading sessions or working behind the scenes, you’re helping students feel confident about choosing Missouri State.

Our strategic plan, “Igniting Opportunity,” calls on us to be an institution of choice for students and employees. One of the simplest ways we achieve that goal is by creating an environment where every visitor feels seen, valued and welcomed.

I encourage all of us to put our best foot forward. Let’s share our pride, our public affairs values and our commitment to student success. Together, we can help future Bears find their home.

It’s a great day to be a Bear!

Biff