NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University welcomed nearly 750 faculty and staff back to campus on Wednesday during its All-Employee Meeting. University President Dr. Lance Tatum outlined strategic priorities for the institution as it begins the 2024-25 academic year.

During his address at the Ron Houston Center for the Performing Arts, Tatum, now in his second year as the University's 11th president, emphasized Northwest's commitment to student success. "When one looks at Northwest, one sees an unwavering commitment to student success, which we believe is at the heart of our mission," he said. He highlighted the university's dedication to providing access to education for all students, especially those who may not attend larger universities.

Tatum addressed concerns about decreased enrollment and perceptions of diminished value in a college degree. He asserted that Northwest remains an "exceptional university" thriving on synergy among its students, faculty, staff, alumni network, and community support.

This fall, Northwest aims to increase on-campus undergraduate enrollment through investments in new tools, modifying recruitment and admissions strategies, and improving brand perception. The university is also focusing on emerging programs that have quickly become premier offerings in the Midwest.

"The goal is not merely to get more students but to target and pursue the right students," Tatum stated. He emphasized that if prospective students visit Maryville and experience Northwest's campus culture, they will choose to enroll.

Reflecting on his first year as president, Tatum spoke about the welcoming atmosphere he and his wife have experienced in Maryville. He noted their interactions with alumni and friends of the university: "No matter the occasion... we have always walked away from those conversations impressed with the passion of those who call Northwest their university."

In addition to Tatum’s remarks, employees heard from Dr. Robert Voss, Duane Havard, and Chloe DeVries. DeVries echoed Tatum’s sentiment about Northwest’s “secret sauce” being its people by sharing her positive experiences with faculty members like Dr. Brian Hesse and Patricia Warner.

"Every student has faculty and staff members who have made lasting impacts on them," DeVries said. She encouraged everyone to remember that these impacts happen daily through small interactions.

The meeting concluded with discussions on addressing aging infrastructure through ongoing projects like energy modernization and Martindale Hall renovations. Despite temporary inconveniences caused by construction work around campus, Tatum assured that these efforts signify progress towards restoring Northwest's beautiful campus.