There’s a lot of momentum on the Missouri State University campus right now, and it’s exciting to see. From alumni who make a difference through their giving to new facilities that serve our students and the broader community, we’re making our mission real in tangible ways.

I want to highlight two milestones that make me especially proud. They represent investment in our future, opportunities for students to grow and excel, and meaningful community impact.

Supporting future accountants

Last week was truly historic for Missouri State. Thanks to a generous seven-figure gift from alumnus Dick Pendleton and his daughters, Sheri Law, Sally Phillips and Tracy Myrick, our School of Accountancy is now known as the Pendleton Family School of Accountancy.

This marks the first time in our history that a school has been named through philanthropic support, and it’s a testament to the deep loyalty of our alumni and the culture of giving that defines our community. What makes this gift stand out is its focus on empowering students and faculty through enhanced learning opportunities, scholarships and real-world engagement.

Dick’s story — from earning his degree in business finance to becoming a trusted leader in the accounting profession and a successful developer — is the kind of legacy that inspires all of us. We’re grateful for the Pendleton family’s commitment and for the doors this will open for current and future Bears.

Where learning meets service

In other good news, we’re also celebrating a major advancement in how we serve both our students and community members. The McQueary College of Health and Human Services has opened the new Collaborative Care Clinic in Ann Kampeter Health Sciences Hall.

From counseling to speech-language pathology, hearing, psychological and learning diagnostic services, this modern, 17,000-square-foot facility brings together a range of clinical services under one roof. It enhances interprofessional education and allows for more hands-on learning in a real-world setting.

The open house is set for 2 p.m. this Friday and I hope many of you will attend and explore the space. Thank you to Dean Mark Smith and his team for their vision, leadership and hard work in making this project possible.

Upcoming HLC Evaluation

One final note: on March 30-31, we’ll welcome peer reviewers from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). During their visit, they’ll hold open forums, and all members of our campus community are encouraged to attend one of these forums.

We’ll learn the exact timing of the forums a week or two before the visit. Until then, I invite you to prepare for the visit by reviewing important information from the HLC Oversight Committee.

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

Biff