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.
The University of Central Missouri (UCM) will welcome thousands of visitors as it hosts the 2025 Fall Commencement exercises Friday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 13, in the Jerry M. Hughes Athletics Center.
December 04, 2025
Those who live or have lived in Warrensburg know the voice. Marion “Woody” Woods has been synonymous with radio, the University of Central Missouri (UCM) and Mules and Jennies athletics for nearly five decades. All the while, Irma Woods has been right there, serving the community at Truman (formerly Johnson County) Title Company. Woody and Irma’s names will live on at UCM as they have established the Marion “Woody” Woods and Irma Woods Scholarship for Broadcast.
December 03, 2025
The University of Central Missouri (UCM) has extended the contract of Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Matt Howdeshell through June 30, 2030, reaffirming the university's confidence in his leadership and the momentum he has generated since arriving in 2023.
December 01, 2025
We meet Dr. Matt Howdeshell, vice president of Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Central Missouri. We discuss his background, his vision for UCM athletics, the importance of community engagement, and the initiatives he has implemented to support student athletes, including nutrition and mental health services. The conversation also touches on myths surrounding university athletics, the challenges of following a legendary predecessor and Howdeshell's management style and team-oriented culture.
April 15, 2025
This episode of Central Speaks shines a spotlight on Courtney Swoboda, director of UCM's Military and Veterans Services Office and 2024 Higher Ed Military Spotlight Award recipient. Courtney’s decade of service in the Air Force and five years at UCM have shaped her into a transformative leader, redefining military-friendly education through her dedication and innovation.
April 15, 2025
Today we welcome Cory Wicker, Ph.D., SPHR, SHRM-SCP, UCM associate vice president for Human Resources. Since joining UCM in May 2023, Dr. Wicker has brought a wealth of expertise to the university, leveraging his extensive experience in human resources to drive positive change and empower the university’s most valuable asset: its people. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!
April 15, 2025
UCM campus B-Roll footage comprises a variety of campus views and activities. For more videos, visit the university's YouTube channel.
A variety of campus photographs are available for use. Visit our image library to find anything from students on campus to current facility photos.
Find information about UCM building names, university colors, fonts and logos and other basic branding guidelines.
UCM boasts a diverse faculty and staff with expertise across a wide range of subjects. Visit our Experts Directory to find individuals willing to share information with the news media and local organizations.
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.
