MSSU Breaks Ground in Missouri: A New Era in Health and Global Education

Missouri Southern State University Takes Historic Step Forward

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) reached a significant milestone in its history by expanding its statewide mission on September 5, 2025. The recent celebration on campus followed the formal endorsement from Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, who approved Senate Concurrent Resolution 3 (SCR3) and Senate Bill 150 (SB150) just a few months earlier, on July 9, 2025.

This approval has positioned MSSU as the sole public university in Missouri with a unique focus on health and life sciences, immersive learning experiences, and international education. During the ceremony, Missouri Senator Jill Carter highlighted the exciting opportunities this expansion will provide for students at MSSU.

The new designation is not just about academic standing—it's a transformative leap that builds upon MSSU's long-established reputation in international education, a cornerstone of its mission since 1995. According to Dean Van Galen, PhD, the president of MSSU, this landmark legislation reinforces the university's commitment to excellence and its pivotal role in cultivating tomorrow's healthcare workforce.

“Building on the statewide recognition of excellence, Missouri Southern will ensure that all students benefit from the transformational experience embodied in our new designation,” he remarked in his speech.

The celebration brought together stakeholders from all walks of life, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, community leaders, and state officials. It highlighted the vital role played by MSSU in shaping Missouri's healthcare landscape and the university's global partnerships.

Interactive displays at the event illustrated the multifaceted expansion of MSSU's mission. A special emphasis was placed on the construction of the Roy Blunt Health Science Innovation Center, set to open its doors in the summer of 2026. This cutting-edge facility will feature a simulation hospital, modern cadaver labs, and advanced laboratories equipped with the latest healthcare technologies. The goal is to create an unparalleled learning environment that empowers students with hands-on training and practical experience.

MSSU first initiated its proposal to revamp its mission to the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education (CBHE) back in 2023. This proposal received unanimous support during the review process, culminating in the legislative push that commenced in early 2024. The university acknowledged key players who championed this expansion during the celebration, including several state representatives who played a pivotal role in advocating for the approval of SCR3 and SB150.

With the approval of this new mission, Missouri Southern State University is blazing a trail for higher education in Missouri. As students prepare to benefit from the innovative programs and initiatives prompted by the expansion, MSSU reaffirms its dedication to enhancing educational opportunities that prepare graduates for a rapidly evolving world. The university is set to become an academic beacon, showcasing its commitment to blending health, technology, and global perspectives in higher education.

The recent developments at MSSU signify not only a new chapter for the university but also a community and state ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the future. Through its enhanced commitment to health sciences and global education, MSSU is poised for a bright and impactful future in shaping the lives of its students and the health landscape of Missouri.