UCM Board of Governors Approves Academic, Facilities and Administrative Measures Supporting Institutional Growth

The University of Central Missouri’s (UCM) Board of Governors met Oct. 23, 2025, on the Warrensburg campus, approving a series of academic, facilities and administrative actions designed to strengthen academic offerings, enhance campus infrastructure and sustain operational excellence. All plenary items were approved unanimously.

 

The Board approved the establishment of a new Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, a graduate degree developed through extensive collaboration among all four academic colleges. The program will allow students to pursue customized study pathways across disciplines, promoting innovation, flexibility and workforce readiness through interdisciplinary learning.

 

In additional academic action, the Board approved a departmental name change, aligning the newly formed Department of History and Social Studies with contemporary disciplinary structure following the reorganization of the former Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Studies.

 

Under the Finance and Administration Committee’s recommendations, the Board authorized several campus improvements and operational initiatives:

• Renewal of the Adobe Systems Incorporated Creative Cloud Suite licensing agreement, ensuring continued access to essential creative and design tools for students and faculty.
  
  
• Approval of the Hudson Hall and University Conference Center asbestos abatement and demolition project, clearing the way for future site use and safety improvements.
  
  
• Advancement of multiple phases of the Humphreys Building renovation, including contracts for furniture, fixtures and equipment; access control systems; and audio-visual technology installations.
  
  
• Approval of the Hendricks Hall Immersive Audio System project, modernizing one of UCM’s most historic performance and assembly venues.

Additionally, the Board approved an updated Internal Audit Charter, reinforcing the university’s commitment to accountability and transparency in financial and operational processes.

 

Informational items presented during the plenary session included the Fall 2025 Enrollment Census Report, which showed continued growth in undergraduate enrollment for a third consecutive year, driven by increases in new first-time freshmen and military-affiliated students. Graduate enrollment trends reflected anticipated shifts in international student numbers due to external visa factors, while overall undergraduate indicators, including FAFSA completion rates, remained strong.

 

Government Relations Director David Pearce provided an update on Missouri’s legislative and budget outlook, noting a cautious revenue forecast for the fiscal year and emerging collaborations expected to support workforce development initiatives across the state.

 

Board of Governors President John Collier also recognized UCM’s positive standing in recent U.S. News & World Report rankings and praised the campus community’s engagement during Homecoming Week. 

The Board approved emeritus status for Tina Campbell, who retired Oct. 31 after 14 years of service in Facilities, recognizing her dedication to maintaining campus operations and student housing.

 

The next regular meeting of the UCM Board of Governors is scheduled for Dec. 11-12, 2025.