By Alex Greenwood, January 28, 2026
Frances Greene accepts her emeritus status certificate from Board of Governors President John Collier, left, with UCM President Roger Best, right, and Douglas Thomas, president of the Emeriti and Retiree Executive Committee, far right.
Dr. Richard Cole accepts his emeritus status certificate from Board of Governors President John Collier, left, with UCM President Roger Best, right, and Douglas Thomas, president of the Emeriti and Retiree Executive Committee, far right.
The University of Central Missouri (UCM) Board of Governors approved a series of academic, financial and operational actions during its regular meeting on Thursday, Jan. 22, at the Warrensburg campus.
Among the actions taken, the board approved a new graduate certificate in Lean and Project Management, expanding UCM’s academic offerings in applied, workforce-aligned fields. The online, 12-credit-hour certificate is designed for students and working professionals seeking to strengthen their understanding of lean principles and project management practices. Governors also approved a retail food service remodel contract for a Dunkin’ Donuts location on campus at The Crossing shopping center.
The board reviewed second-quarter investment and revenue and expense reports for fiscal year 2026 and approved the university’s annual single audit. Governors also approved bridge funding for KMOS, supporting continued operations while longer-term funding strategies are pursued.
In addition, the board approved emeritus status for three retired UCM employees in recognition of their years of service. Those honored include Frances Greene, fixed asset manager and accountant III, who served from Aug. 1, 2006, to Dec. 31, 2025; Claudia Welhoff, administrative assistant, who served from Feb. 5, 2001, to Jan. 31, 2026; and Dr. Richard Cole, former assistant director of clinical services and certification, who served from June 18, 2007, to June 30, 2020.
Earlier in the day, the Board Committee on Academic Affairs received an enrollment update and reviewed the proposed graduate certificate before advancing it to the plenary agenda. The committee also discussed future agenda items.
The Board Committee on Finance and Administration reviewed financial reports, procurement activity, capital project updates, and KMOS bridge funding, advancing several items for full board consideration.
The meeting was held in the Elliott Student Union and livestreamed for public viewing. More information is available at ucmo.edu/bog. The next meeting is scheduled for March 26-27, 2026, at the Warrensburg campus.
