At the University of Central Missouri, we believe in the power of stories to inform, inspire and connect. The UCM News Bureau serves as the university's central source for official news, announcements and feature stories that highlight the achievements, events and initiatives shaping our campus community.
Our team provides timely, accurate and engaging content that reflects the university's commitment to academic excellence, student success and community engagement. Whether you're a student, faculty or staff member, alumnus, journalist or visitor, we invite you to explore our latest updates and discover the many ways UCM is redefining what's possible locally, nationally and globally.
As January brought a chilly start to 2026, a new semester at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) was already heating up: the Fashion program and the Talking Mules received accolades, students and faculty presented at national conferences, the Intensive English Program earned reaccreditation, and a UCM fraternity received an award nomination.
February 06, 2026
Students and faculty from the Division of Theatre and Dance at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) attended the Region V American College Theatre Festival (ACTF) Jan. 18-24 in Rochester, Minnesota.
February 04, 2026
The University of Central Missouri (UCM) Division of Music will present a performance of Messiaen’s “Quartet for the End of Time” on Monday, Feb. 9, featuring faculty members and recent Grammy winners from Alarm Will Sound.
February 03, 2026
In this Season Three premiere, host Alex Greenwood talks with "the Great Connector," David Pearce, UCM’s Executive Director for Governmental Relations, about his path from politics to higher education advocacy. David breaks down how relationships drive real progress in Jefferson City, recent legislative wins that matter for UCM, and why civic engagement still counts.
November 07, 2025
This episode of Central Speaks examines the reasons why the University of Central Missouri was recognized in the Warrensburg Star-Journal’s Best of the Burg awards. From being a top place to work to Mules National Golf Club and Traditions Restaurant to student services and campus support, UCM earned recognition not just for what we do but also for how we do it. In that vein, we revisit some of the voices and stories that show what makes UCM stand out. You’ll hear from people across campus who make student success and community engagement more than just slogans; they make them a reality.
October 06, 2025
In this special edition of Central Speaks, host Alex Greenwood sits down with Dr. Ann McCoy, Vice Provost of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies and chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, to discuss the University of Central Missouri’s new 2026–2031 Strategic Plan. This isn’t just another document; it’s a roadmap that will guide UCM’s next chapter in academics, student life, staff support, and community engagement. Dr. McCoy shares: Why every voice matters: How input from students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members will directly shape UCM’s priorities. What’s at stake: The plan will affect every corner of the university, from enrollment initiatives to faculty resources to campus facilities. How to get involved: Dr. McCoy provides details on the campus-wide survey now open to all stakeholders and explains why your feedback is essential. Behind the process: A transparent look at the steps from early interviews and surveys to the Board of Governors’ final adoption. A personal note: On a personal note, Dr. McCoy shares a fun fact about how she literally keeps afloat in a busy world.
September 23, 2025
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Main Areas: Missouri Legislative Session, Employment Opportunities in Politics and Government for College Students, Current Events and Their Political Implications
660-543-4365
dpearce@ucmo.edu
Main Areas: Wildlife Disease, Vector-Borne Pathogens, Plague Sylvatic Cycle, Microbial Genetics, Microbial Ecology
660-543-8027
pauling@ucmo.edu
Main Areas: Entomology, Butterfly Conservation, Pollination
660-543-8880
marschalek@ucmo.edu
UCM's Integrated Marketing and Communications (IMC) staff is available to answer media questions, present an overview of our campus community, identify subject-matter experts in our faculty, provide photos/video footage and work with you on articles related to higher education.
