Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University held its winter commencement ceremonies on Friday at Bearcat Arena, honoring nearly 1,800 graduates. The ceremonies marked the culmination of academic efforts and highlighted the journey ahead for these students.
Dr. Lance Tatum, President of Northwest, addressed the graduates and their families. "Today, we celebrate a milestone, a day of accomplishment, reflection and new beginnings," he stated. He emphasized the values and resilience developed by students during their time at the university. "Life operates much like a harvest. What we reap is a direct result of what we sow."
Tatum acknowledged that each degree represents extensive study and commitment. He encouraged graduates to be ambitious in their future endeavors. "The education you have received is a seed that can grow into innovations, solutions and contributions that extend far beyond yourself," he said.
The ceremonies celebrated 1,791 students who completed degrees last summer and fall. Among them were 510 bachelor's degree recipients, 1,065 master's degree recipients, and 216 who earned education specialist degrees. Business management was noted as the most common bachelor's degree awarded.
Graduates came from 42 states with nearly 70 percent being Missouri residents. The university also recognized 380 international graduates from 15 countries.
Northwest Missouri State University offers various undergraduate and selected graduate programs primarily on its Maryville campus. Established in 1905, it boasts high retention and graduation rates compared to peer institutions.
According to data from Ruffalo Noel Levitz Student Satisfaction Inventory, Northwest students report higher satisfaction than peers nationally. Additionally, a significant percentage of alumni secure employment or continue education shortly after graduation.
The university emphasizes profession-based learning while maintaining low tuition costs to reduce financial barriers for students pursuing higher education.
For further details about Northwest Missouri State University’s offerings and programs, visit their official website.
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