NW Missouri Times

Dr. Matt Symonds, a retiring professor of health science at Northwest Missouri State University, has pledged $20,000 to support the renovation of Martindale Hall. Symonds expressed his motivation for the donation, stating, “People made an impact on me, and I know what those experiences – hands-on experiences in the classroom – did for me. I just want others to experience that.”

Symonds, who has been a part of Northwest for 28 years, will be transitioning to his new role as the executive director of the Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators (MOSHAPE). He shared his excitement for the upcoming career change, saying, “I’m really excited about the next chapter of my career. I’m ready to try something different.”

The renovation project at Martindale Hall is part of Northwest's efforts to address space needs and centralize operations for allied health sciences programs. The updated space will include labs for foods and nutrition, well-being, and sports science, in addition to classrooms and collaboration spaces. Symonds highlighted the significance of expanded lab spaces, stating, “We’ve really expanded the technology we have in our labs and the things that students can learn how to do while they’re here, so the expanded lab spaces are going to be super helpful to provide more students with more access and experiences.”

Reflecting on his journey at Northwest, Symonds credited former faculty and staff members Dr. Jim Herauf, Bob Lade, and Dr. Jim Redd as influential mentors who helped shape his career. He mentioned, “All three of them were key influences and helped me develop and refine my interests in health, physical education, and sport. They also provided examples of what good leadership looks like. Many of the things I learned from them I use to this day.”

The Northwest Foundation, a not-for-profit corporation supporting the university and its students, is overseeing the fundraising efforts for the Martindale Hall project. Individuals interested in contributing to the cause can contact the Northwest Foundation at 660.562.1248 or visit their website.

As Symonds bids farewell to Northwest after nearly three decades, his support for the upgrades at Martindale Hall stands as a testament to his dedication to the institution and the field of health sciences.