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UCM News
How UCM Meets the Moment: President Roger Best on the Three C's | Central Speaks
University of Central Missouri (UCM) President Roger Best joins Central Speaks to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping higher education today, and how faculty and staff can help UCM meet this moment in service to students.
May 14, 2026
Susan Smedley on IMC, Storytelling, and Service | Central Speaks
In this episode, Alex Greenwood talks with Vice President for the Office of Integrated Marketing and Communications, Susan Smedley, about how IMC supports the University of Central Missouri (UCM) through strategy, storytelling, and service.
May 04, 2026
From Undecided to Graduated with Maggie Segnitz
In this episode, Dr. Maggie Segnitz, Director of the Success Advising Center at the University of Central Missouri, shares insights into success advising, its role in student achievement, and how it differs from traditional advising. Discover how UCM supports students from undecided majors to graduation and the importance of relationship-building in higher education.
April 27, 2026
David Pearce on Government, Education, and Community
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
Best of the 'Burg: A Central Speaks Roundup
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
Ann McCoy on Shaping UCM's Future Together
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
Standards, Support, and Second Chances: Ed Wirthwein on Student Success
IIn this episode, Ed Wirthwein, the director of Community Standards and Support at the University of Central Missouri, shares his journey from being a student at UCM to becoming a vital part of the university's staff, emphasizing the importance of student support, mentorship, and community standards. He discusses his role in helping students navigate challenges, the significance of Greek life in fostering leadership skills, and his involvement in the Staff Council to advocate for staff interests. Ed's passion for student success and his commitment to creating a supportive environment at UCM shine throughout the conversation. Listen in!
June 27, 2025
Dr. Dawn Pauling on Plague, Prairie Dogs and the Power of Curiosity
On this episode of Central Speaks, we sit down with Dr. Dawn Pauling, associate instructor of biology at UCM, whose career has taken her from tracking wildlife in the wilds of Alaska to researching one of the most misunderstood diseases in history—the plague. Dr. Pauling pulls back the curtain on her journey into wildlife disease research, busts a few plague myths and explains why hands-on, curiosity-driven learning is a major part of the UCM experience. We talk about why engaging students in real-world inquiry matters, how UCM supports that mission, and what it means to prepare the next generation of scientists not just to learn science—but to do it.
May 20, 2025
Tiffany Cochran on Alumni, Leadership and Legacy
In this episode of Central Speaks, we meet Tiffany Cochran, a UCM alumna and Senior Director of Events and Alumni Engagement. She shares her inspiring journey from scholarship student studying Fashion and Apparel Merchandising to leader in alumni engagement, reflecting on the pivotal role scholarships played in her education, her successful career in retail management, and her transition into higher education. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of community involvement, mentorship and building lasting connections with alumni.
April 15, 2025
Building Community Through Sports with Dr. Matt Howdeshell
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
