I joined more than 110 colleagues for the spring General Faculty Meeting and shared an update on MU’s incredible momentum, including our record number of applicants and all-time high retention and graduation rates. Interim Provost Matt Martens provided an exciting MizzouForward update and partners from Ayers Saint Gross presented the latest information on our campus master plan. I appreciated hearing from faculty and the opportunity for open and candid conversations.

To conclude the meeting, MU Faculty Council announced the 2023-24 Shared Governance Awards. These recognitions honor individuals and groups who demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to supporting the voice of faculty.

This year’s individual winner was Emily Leary, assistant professor and director of biostatistics in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Dr. Leary was recognized for raising the visibility of Faculty Affairs Council within the School of Medicine, among many other accomplishments. The group winner was MU Extension Faculty for their work to include Extension field faculty as full members in Faculty Council. Todd Lorenz, a regional field specialist in agronomy and a leading advocate for the change, accepted the award on the group’s behalf.

Shared governance is critical to the future of Mizzou and to the success of our land-grant mission. I’m proud to collaborate with faculty to achieve excellence in research, teaching and meaningful engagement that serves our students, Missouri and the world.

— Mun