Take a moment to see what’s happening this week in the Division of Student Affairs.
1. Public Affairs Conference 2026 – The 23rd Public Affairs Conference is Sept. 29-Oct. 1, 2026. The theme of the conference is “The We Factor: Building Connections That Matter.” Join us for 5 in-person speakers, 18 live virtual panels and 3 pre and post conference events. There is something for everyone as we explore together the impact of community engagement, collaboration, and leadership in business, science, education, agriculture, health, humanities, the arts and more.
All conference events are free and open to the campus and the public. No registration is necessary. Learn more on the Public Affairs website.
2. Save the Date – State of the University Address – Friday, October 2nd, 12pm-1pm – Plaster Student Union Theater. Join President Richard “Biff” Williams for Mo State’s 2026 State of the University where he will provide a year one progress report on the strategic plan Igniting Opportunity!
When: Friday, October 2nd
Time: 12pm-1pm
Where: Plaster Student Union Theater
3. Camp Claw Parents Night Out – Campus Recreation is thrilled to announce that Camp Claw will be hosting Parents Night Out! This is a one-night event where kids can come enjoy a smaller version of their favorite parts about Camp Claw. Parents Night Out will run from 5-10 p.m. with check-in starting at 5 p.m. and pick up starting at 9:30 p.m. We will enjoy the pool, rock wall, pizza, games and so much more during our time together.
Friday, October 16, 2026 (Register by October 13)
Friday, December 4, 2026 (Register by December 1)
The cost for this event is only $50/camper! When you register, you will have access to our “Parents Night Out Information Sheet” that will tell you everything you need to know about that night.
If you have any questions please email: CWieters@missouristate.edu
4. 2027 Health Premium Wellness Incentive: Earn your Discount by December 1st – Complete at least two activities to earn the full discount: Educational questionnaire (video), flu vaccination, biometric screening. To educate employees about health benefits resources, support proactive health management and reduce the impact of influenza on our workforce, full-time employees enrolled in the Health Plan will qualify for the full 2027 wellness incentive by completing any two of these activities by Dec. 1, 2026:
Watch/complete an educational wellness video/questionnaire through My Learning Connection (Nov. 1-Dec. 1, 2026)
Receive a flu vaccination (between Aug. 1-Dec. 1, 2026)
Complete a biometric screening (between Jan. 1-Dec. 1, 2026)
Visit the Human Resources blog to get more information about the Wellness Incentive!
5. Threads and Trends – Join the Bookstore for a shopping event like no other on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM in the PSU Ballroom West! Explore a curated selection of un-logoed, school-colored professional women’s clothing from a variety of styles and vendors. Purchase your favorite pieces and leave them with our bookstore team to be embroidered with official Missouri State branding, if desired.
Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a dirty soda bar, and a photo booth while you shop. Bring your friends and get ready to find your next piece of professional BearWear!
6. New Annual Emergency Preparedness Training for All Employees – Missouri State University is introducing a new annual Emergency Preparedness Training for all university employees. Beginning this year, all employees are required to complete the training within 30 days of being assigned it. This training provides employees with practical information about university emergency procedures, how to report emergencies, how emergency notifications work, and the protective actions employees may need to take during an incident.
| Preparing for Emergencies Training has been assigned to you in My Learning Connection and must be completed by 10/14/2026. |
To Complete the Training:
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7. Winter Week of Welcome 2027 Preparation – We’re gearing up for an exciting Winter Week of Welcome, and we want YOU to be part of it! Whether you’re interested in volunteering, hosting an event, or just staying in the loop, fill out this quick interest form to let us know how you’d like to get involved. Let’s make this Winter Week of Welcome the best MSU has seen with engaging, welcoming, and unforgettable events!
Winter Week of Welcome Interest Form 2027.
8. A Resource for Employees Facing High Medical Costs – Samaritan Fund Program – Facing significant medical expenses or the high cost of medications can be overwhelming. Missouri State University is pleased to continue offering the Samaritan Fund Program, a voluntary resource designed to provide financial assistance to qualifying employees and dependents. The program may help individuals who qualify transition to an individual health insurance plan while providing financial assistance intended to cover insurance premiums and medical care, potentially eliminating out-of-pocket costs for approved expenses. Learn about the Samaritan Fund Program.
9. Maroon Moves – Walking Challenge – Fall 2027 – Are you looking for a way to start moving more? Do you need a little friendly competition to get you motivated? The Challenge is for all Missouri State University employees, dependents and Graduate Assistants 18 years of age or older. The Walking Challenge starts on October 1st.
- Get a group of 4-8 employees, dependents and Graduate Assistants together, come up with a creative team name, and compete against other teams at the university!
- At least 4 team members must enter steps to be considered a team.
- If you feel more comfortable you can compete as an individual.
- All activities can be converted in a movement challenge.
To find out more about the walking challenge and sign up for a team, visit the employee wellness website.
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