NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University has launched the Center for Engagement and Community Connection (CECC) this fall, offering a new resource aimed at fostering belonging, leadership, and connections among students and employees.

The CECC is located in the Student Engagement Center on the second floor of the J.W. Jones Student Union. Its creation follows recommendations from a task force made up of students, faculty, and staff who gathered feedback from the campus community last spring and reviewed best practices for student support programs.

The center will broaden first-year peer mentoring as well as other mentorship initiatives, including those targeting first-generation and transfer students. It will also expand opportunities for students to engage their peers in programs that encourage dialogue, celebrate cultural diversity, and promote collaboration across campus. The CECC plans to provide resources to help students address financial concerns, achieve academic success, and develop professionally.

“We are excited to open the CECC this fall and help connect people,” Dr. Shay Malone, Northwest’s assistant vice president of institutional excellence and global engagement, said. “We will spark learning, celebrate experiences and create a campus where everyone can thrive. Together, we’re building a stronger Northwest by fostering meaningful relationships and opportunities for growth.”

As part of its opening semester activities, the center is hosting several events:

- From Aug. 22 through Aug. 29 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Northwest employees can participate in the “I Am a Bearcat and …” campaign at various locations on campus.

- On Monday, Aug. 25 from 5 to 7 p.m., all students and employees are invited to an event at the Memorial Bell Tower.

- A networking opportunity for employees is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 27 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Tower View Room at the Student Union.

- Beginning Sept. 5, monthly community-building activities will take place on the first Friday of each month in the Student Engagement Center.

- Starting Sept. 5, barbershop services will be available every other Monday afternoon and every other Friday midday in partnership with a licensed barber.

- Coffee discussions for employees begin Sept. 8 on the second Monday of each month in Room 1070 of Garrett-Strong Science Building.

- The Bearcat Book Club launches virtually on Sept. 15; it encourages conversations about cultural differences and inclusion among employees each semester.

- Talks that Encourage Awareness (T.E.A.) Time begins Thursday evenings starting Sept. 18 in the Student Engagement Center for open dialogue on social issues.

For more information about these offerings or how to get involved with CECC programming or services, interested individuals may contact the center by phone.