Summer sure sped by and Missouri State University’s Welcome Week is here again! I love this time of the year because few things energize our campus like the buzz of new Bears at the start of a new academic year.

Whether it’s your first or 10th Welcome Week, this tradition is a great reminder of why we enjoy what we do at the university: watching new students settle into their home away from home, make meaningful connections, begin their college adventure and get excited about all things maroon and white.

What’s in store

From move-in on Aug. 14 to New Student Convocation on Aug. 17, and all the way through the first week of classes, our campus will be alive with energy, festivity and Bear pride and spirit. This year’s lineup is filled with signature events that show off what makes Missouri State special, such as Playfair, a fun icebreaker, and Bear Bash, the biggest welcome back celebration of the year.

Kristin and I will be joining in many of these events, and I invite you to participate in any way you can. It may be volunteering to help with Bear Crew or attending an event to mingle with students. Even a simple, “Hey, welcome to campus!” or “Do you need any help?” can ease nerves and make students feel at home. Many of them are figuring it all out – where to go, how things work, what to join and how to find community. That’s where each one of us can make a difference.

My appreciation

A big thank you to the student affairs staff who lead this effort so well. Coordinating a week like this with all its moving parts, volunteers, schedules, etc. is no small feat. And I appreciate each one of you for showing up, year after year, to help students feel connected, supported and excited to be part of the Missouri State family.

Here’s to a fun and memorable Welcome Week, and a successful 2025-26 academic year.

Memorial service

On a more solemn note, I know the campus community is still processing the passing of Keith Boaz last week. Keith’s years at Missouri State were marked by an unwavering dedication to his work and a genuine investment in campus life and the community. His efforts touched every corner of our university, leaving a legacy that will not be forgotten.

We invite our campus community to join in honoring his life at 1 p.m. today in Juanita K. Hammons Hall. May we find comfort in coming together to remember the kindness, dedication and spirit Keith shared.

Thanks for checking in.

Biff