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20
Symphony Orchestra Concert
22
Samantha Morris and Esmeralda Gomez-Gonzalez Joint Horn Recital
30
Taylor Gardner, Isaac Kelly, Dawson Grainger, & Justus Burdick Senior Showcase
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
Making MOVES for Military-Friendly Education with Courtney Swoboda
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
Dr. Cory Wicker on Redefining HR
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
Amber Goreham on Finding New Lanes
On our premiere episode, we welcome Amber Goreham. Amber is a proud two-time graduate of UCM, where she has spent the past 20 years dedicated to empowering students and alumni. With a Master of Science in Ethical & Strategic Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Amber has been at the forefront of guiding UCM students on their career and life paths since 2008. As the director of the Career and Life Design Center, she leverages life design principles and a commitment to career readiness to help students navigate their next steps and build the skills they need to thrive in today’s workforce. But Amber’s journey wasn’t always centered around academia—she was once on track to become a professional bowler before life handed her a proverbial gutter ball. Today, we’ll explore how she pivoted from the bowling lanes to a lane focused on shaping lives and careers at UCM. Listen in as we speak with Amber Goreham.
April 15, 2025
