As students returned to campus for the new academic year, they brought a refreshing wave of energy with them. Faculty and staff welcomed them with kindness, and we all worked together to ensure the new year got off to a promising start.

“I want to thank everyone who took time to help students find a building, work through a challenge or otherwise make them feel at home,” says Provost Clarenda Phillips. “These are examples of what we mean when we talk about the Mo State spirit.”

FCTL Showcase

The Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning (FCTL) hosted the 41st Showcase on Teaching and Learning. Dr. Nancy Gordon, FCTL director, tells us she’s always inspired by the interaction at this event. “From storytelling and using AI to engage students in active learning, to tackling challenges like academic integrity and student motivation, and exploring strategies for well-being, there is so much we have to share,” she says. “We are stronger educators when we learn from one another.”

This year’s agenda featured a broad range of faculty presentations, along with a keynote address and workshop from Dr. Rebecca Pope-Ruark, author of Unraveling Faculty Burnout: Pathways to Reckoning and Renewal. Gordon says the focus on managing burnout grew out of feedback from faculty who love their careers in higher education and want to maintain their excitement for years to come.

“This program created space for an important conversation,” says Phillips. “We came away with ideas we could put into action.”

Get Involved at FCTL

If you’re feeling invigorated by this year’s Showcase, you can keep the good vibes going. Faculty writing retreats and learning communities are great ways to stay engaged with FCTL—and your colleagues across campus.

Check out FCTL’s schedule of upcoming events, and read more about learning communities that are meeting this fall.

Convocation

At a high-energy New Student Convocation, Phillips delivered an address that highlighted themes of belonging, purpose and transformation.

“Four years from now, we will gather again—this time at your Commencement,” she said. “When we do, I want you to remember this moment. Remember the people sitting beside you. Remember the excitement you feel today. Remember that you belonged here. Between today and graduation, there will be incredible days—and there will be hard days. There will be classes that challenge you, friendships that change you, professors who inspire you and experiences you cannot even imagine. Missouri State is your university.”