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Moving Forward Together: Celebrating Women Who Educate and Inspire

April 7, 2025 by Callie S. Baker

Hello! I’m Christabel Ghansah, and it’s a privilege to serve as the Director of Diversity and Inclusion on this year’s Student Government Association (SGA) cabinet. As we step out of Women’s History Month, we must come together to honor the extraordinary achievements of women throughout history those who have transformed lives, shattered barriers, and ignited movements. Their stories remind us that resilience, courage, and innovation are the cornerstones of progress. 

Since last month was Women’s History Month, under the theme “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations,” I would like to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable women of our SGA cabinet. These dynamic leaders and advocates are champions of change, tirelessly working to create a more inclusive and empowering campus environment. Their dedication uplifts our community, proving that when women lift each other up, the possibilities are limitless. Together, we can forge a future where every voice resonates, and every dream is within reach. 

Educating to Empower: Women Who Opened Doors 

Education has long been a battleground for women, and yet, against all odds, they have risen to become the architects of knowledge. Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for girls’ education, took a stand against the Taliban’s oppression of women in education and nearly lost her life for it. Yet, even in the face of violence, she emerged stronger, inspiring millions of young girls to demand their right to learn. 

Going back in time, Savitribai Phule of India broke societal norms in the 19th century by opening the first school for girls in her country, defying caste and gender-based discrimination. Her fight laid the foundation for generations of women to step into educational spaces that were once barred to them. 

And then there’s Mary McLeod Bethune, a Black educator and civil rights leader in the United States, who founded a school for Black girls in 1904, paving the way for future generations of African American students to access education in a deeply segregated society. 

These women, and so many others, understood that education is the most powerful tool for breaking cycles of oppression. Their legacies remind us that knowledge is not just power it is liberation.

Inspiring Change: Women Who Led Movements 

History is marked by the footprints of women who, despite resistance, marched forward and demanded change. Sojourner Truth, born into slavery, became one of the most powerful voices for abolition and women’s rights, delivering the historic “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech that still echoes through time. 

Across the ocean, Emmeline Pankhurst spearheaded the suffragette movement in the United Kingdom, relentlessly fighting for women’s right to vote. Her activism shook the foundations of British politics, proving that women’s voices could no longer be ignored. 

In Latin America, Rigoberta Menchú, an Indigenous K’iche’ Maya woman from Guatemala, has spent her life advocating for the rights of Indigenous women and communities, fighting against systemic violence and oppression. Her work earned her a Nobel Peace Prize, but more importantly, it has amplified the voices of countless marginalized women. 

These women remind us that progress is not given it is demanded. Their courage fuels today’s activists, ensuring that the fight for justice continues. 

Moving Forward Together: A Global Sisterhood 

As we honor the past, we must also recognize the women who continue to shape the present and future. In Africa, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization, is breaking barriers in global economics. In the Middle East, Tawakkol Karman, known as the “Mother of the Revolution,” fights for democracy and human rights in Yemen. In STEM, Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a leading scientist behind the COVID-19 vaccine, is revolutionizing healthcare and inspiring a new generation of women in science. 

Women’s progress has never been a solitary journey. It is a collective movement one that transcends borders, cultures, and generations. When we educate one woman, we educate a community. When we uplift one voice, we amplify a movement. When we move forward together, we ensure that no woman is left behind. 

This Women’s History Month let’s celebrate the trailblazers who paved the way, honor those who continue to fight for equality, and commit ourselves to empowering the next generation. The future is ours to build together. 

 

Filed Under: Blogs, Diversity & Public Affairs, MSU Community

SGA Day at the Capitol Recap

February 17, 2025 by Callie S. Baker

Hello, my name is Robert-Thomas Gumersell, and I am the Director of University Affairs for SGA. On February 5th, I joined about 36 student leaders from Missouri State to attend our annual Day at The Capitol event. In addition to attending the event, I also helped plan the events of the day and carried out these plans alongside Executive Vice President Zora Mulligan and Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Siscoe.

We hit the ground running from start to finish, doing things ranging from being recognized by both the State House and Senate, to meeting several legislators, to receiving a free lunch, and finally, touring the state capitol. We also had the opportunity to speak to and hear from several Missouri State alumni, as well as former United States Senator Roy Blunt.

Overall, the event was a huge success and was filled with memorable moments. To anyone who has never attended this event before, I highly recommend that you do so next February. You can attend the event even if you’re not in the S.G.A., just as long as you sign up on time. 

Filed Under: Blogs, Committees, University & Civic Advancement

Black History Month: A Legacy of Strength, A Future of Possibilities

February 1, 2025 by Callie S. Baker

February is more than just another month, it’s a time of reflection, recognition, and celebration. Black History Month honors the resilience, brilliance, and impact of Black individuals throughout history. This month is an important reminder of how far we’ve come, how much we’ve overcome, and how much work still lies ahead. 

At Missouri State University, diversity is not just a word, it’s a commitment. This month gives us a chance to not only acknowledge Black history but to actively engage with it, learn from it, and carry its lessons forward. 

More Than a Month, More Than a Moment 

Black history is often reduced to a handful of names and events, but its influence runs far deeper. That influence is found in the creativity of artists, innovation of scientists, the leadership of activists, and everyday excellence of Black individuals pushing boundaries in every field. 

From the civil rights movement to present-day advocacy, Black change-makers have continuously shaped history. And that history is not just something to study, it’s something to live. Right here at MSU, Black students, faculty, and staff are making history in real-time, breaking barriers, leading organizations, and driving change on campus and beyond. 

The Power of Acknowledgment and Action 

Representation matters, but representation alone isn’t enough. True progress happens when we move beyond acknowledgment and take real action. That means creating spaces where Black voices are heard, where Black achievements are celebrated, and where systemic barriers are actively dismantled. 

This month, challenge yourself to do more than just observe. Engage. Educate yourself. Support Black businesses. Attend campus events. Have real conversations about race, equity, and inclusion. Most importantly, carry that energy beyond February because Black history is being made every single day. 

Ways to Get Involved This Month (and Beyond) 

Show Up & Learn – Attend events that highlight Black culture, history, and contributions. Listen to speakers, join discussions, and engage with new perspectives. 

Support Black Creators & Businesses – Whether it’s a local Black-owned business, an independent artist, or a content creator, your support makes a difference. 

Educate Yourself – Read books by Black authors, watch documentaries, and explore history that often is not taught in textbooks. Knowledge is power. 

Speak Up – Advocate for inclusivity, challenge bias, and amplify Black voices in your everyday conversations and spaces. 

A Collective Responsibility 

Black History Month is not just about looking back—it’s about moving forward. It’s about recognizing the contributions of the past while actively shaping a future where equity, representation, and opportunity exist for everyone. 

At MSU, we have the power to foster an environment where diversity is celebrated not just in February but every single day. Let’s make that commitment together! 

– Christabel Ghansah, Director of Diversity and Inclusion, SGA 

Filed Under: Blogs, Commissions, Committees, Diversity & Public Affairs, Public Relations

2025 Elections Season Information

January 21, 2025 by Callie S. Baker

The 2025 Student Body Election season is officially underway! Here’s everything you need to know to stay informed this semester. 

Each spring, we elect a new Student Body President and Vice President, who also serve as the President and Vice President of the Student Government Association (SGA). Additionally, we elect a Senior Class President, a key role in engaging and supporting the senior class throughout their final year at Missouri State University. Each ticket also includes a campaign manager to support their campaign process.  

Candidates for these positions will begin their campaigns soon, so keep an eye out for their announcements. To appear on the ballot, those running for Student Body President and Vice President must collect 500 signatures from MSU students. Senior Class President candidates must gather 200 signatures. You may be approached to sign a candidate’s petition—this simply allows their ticket to appear on the ballot for the election. 

Once the candidates qualify, campaigning will begin. There will be many opportunities to hear the candidates’ platforms and decide who you believe will best serve Missouri State. Candidates will launch their social media accounts, and a debate will take place on March 11th at 7:00 PM in Plaster Student Union Room 313. “Blitz Week,” starting on March 28th, will provide a dedicated time for candidates to actively promote their tickets across campus. During this week, they can engage with students, hang banners, chalk sidewalks, and more. 

Voting will take place from April 7th at 8:00 AM to April 11th at 5:00 PM via My.MissouriState.com. Along with casting your vote for candidates, you’ll also have the chance to approve updates to the SGA Constitution—the governing document for the organization. The ballot will also include Wyrick Proposals, which are construction projects aimed at improving our campus. 

Election results and the outcomes of the proposals will be announced on the evening of April 11th. 

Make your voice heard this election season and help shape the future of Missouri State University! 

Filed Under: Blogs, Campus Information, Commissions, Committees, Elections Commission, MSU Community, Press Release, Public Relations, SGA News, University & Civic Advancement

Bear With Me

November 20, 2017 by Summer Reid

*This article was written by Tara Orr. Tara is a freshman, Marketing major from Blue Springs, MO!*

Hey Bears! SGA’s Administrative Service Committee has some exciting news about a new program coming to Missouri State in Spring 2018 called Bear With Me. Bear With Me is a program designed to give students the chance to work off a parking ticket with community service hours! Cool right? The program is simple. Those who receive a parking ticket (lower than $50) have the opportunity to complete 2 hours of community service within 15 days of receiving the ticket in order to waive the fine. This unique program allows you to save your money and give back to the Springfield community at the same time!

The terms of this program are:

  • The ticket must be issued by Missouri State University Safety and Transportation
  • The ticket cannot be valued more than $50.00
  • No citation issued due to illegal parking in a handicap space can be replaced with service hours
  • Only one ticket per student in an academic year can be converted by this program
  • The program ends after $3,000 worth of parking citations have been worked off

A student on the Administrative Service team shared her thoughts with us on the new program, “I think Bear With Me is an amazing way for students to get engaged in the community! Hopefully after doing the two hours of service required, they will enjoy it so much they will want to go back and help out the community even more. It makes getting a parking ticket not so bad.”

If you have any questions regarding this new program, visit our website or search “Bear With Me” on Campus Link!

Filed Under: Administrative & Information Services

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