NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University employees gathered Wednesday at the Charles Johnson Theater to mark the start of the 2025-26 academic year. The meeting focused on strategic planning and adaptability as the university undergoes significant changes to its campus and operations.

President Dr. Lance Tatum addressed faculty and staff, reflecting on recent achievements and ongoing efforts aligned with Northwest’s strategic objectives. “Since arriving in Maryville, (first lady) Jill and I have met thousands of Bearcats, alumni, faculty, staff, students and community members,” Tatum said. “Through every handshake, every story, every event, one thing is perfectly clear: Northwest is more than just a university. It’s a purpose. And that feeling is born from you, from your care, your presence and the pride that you bring to something that is greater than yourself. We are here today because of your commitment, because you believe in this institution, in its mission and in the students we serve.”

Tatum outlined progress on four key priorities: enrollment growth and sustainability, collegiate experience, people, and operations. “These priorities are not separate,” he said. “They are deeply interconnected, and they are fundamental to our continued progress.”

The university expects fall enrollment to exceed 8,500 students for the fourth consecutive year. Tatum noted this outcome relies on coordinated efforts across various departments as well as new marketing strategies targeting specific student groups.

To support student retention rates, Northwest will introduce a four-year professional advising pilot program designed to offer personalized guidance throughout degree completion. The university has also worked to diversify international enrollment and explore niche opportunities such as esports programs.

“Opportunities like esports will not only bring new students to Northwest,” Tatum said. “They also enrich the collegiate experience for everyone, adding to the vibrancy and sense of community that defines student life on our campus.”

Tatum emphasized programming outside traditional academics—including expanded partnerships through the Center for Engagement and Community Connection—to help prepare students for participation in a global society. “The commitment to a strong collegiate experience also extends to how we prepare students for a global society,” he said. “The Center for Engagement and Community Connection is broadening opportunities for students to connect with the world — expanding partnerships, fostering cultural understanding and equipping Bearcats with the skills to thrive in an interconnected future. Together, these efforts — inside and outside the classroom, across academics, co-curricular activities and campus life — advance a single goal: to create a student experience that is immersive in learning, rich in opportunity and memorable for a lifetime.”

On institutional strategy regarding personnel matters and operations management, Vice President Stacy Carrick discussed transitions underway within administration while Vice President Krista Barcus described implementation of a new employee compensation model.

Tatum referenced plans for an upcoming comprehensive fundraising campaign led by Johnson, Grossnickel & Associates aimed at improving facilities that shape first impressions among prospective students.

“We recognize the power of a student’s first impression,” Tatum said. “From their very first steps on campus, we want students and families to feel inspired and confident in their consideration of Northwest. This campaign will support strategic investments in our front-door experience — spaces and facilities that reflect the quality and pride of the Bearcat community.”

Tatum announced initiation of a search process intended to name Northwest’s next provost by January—a move he described as both ambitious and necessary.

“This timeline is both ambitious and intentional, reflecting the importance we place on finding a leader who will build upon our strong academic foundation and advance our mission with vision, integrity and purpose,” Tatum said.

He concluded his remarks by stating: “Our decisions, our actions, our investments and the planning over the past two years have led Northwest to this moment – a University that is focused on its mission, that is grounded in its purpose and ambitious in its pursuits. For all we do affirms a powerful truth: regardless of our title or position each of us plays a vital role in shaping the lives of our students.”

Brief comments were also made by President Duane Havard and President Dr. Michael Miller during Wednesday's meeting.

Later that evening employees attended an annual picnic hosted by Drs. Lance Tatum at Raymond J. Courter College Park Pavilion.