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MSSU History

A History of Missouri Southern State University


2018

Nixon Hall, an expansion off Reynolds Hall which will house the Mathematics Department, is set to be completed and open for business by the end of the year. 

Donors contributed to the construction of a state-of-the-art video board addition to the Athletic Complex.

2016

Work begins on the Reynolds Hall renovation project, which will create new classrooms and laboratory space in the second oldest building on campus. Reynolds houses the biology, environmental health, physical science and mathematics programs.

2015

The “Yours to Lose – Advanced Medical School Acceptance Program” is announced. The program will allow up to 25 Missouri Southern students to be admitted into Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences new medical school set to open in Joplin in 2017.

2014 - 2015

Five major projects- totaling more than $30 million – helped to reshape Missouri Southern’s landscape.  The progress is unprecedented since the mid-1960s. The projects include: Warren Turner Field baseball stadium; End Zone Facility; Residence Halls (called "The Quads" because most rooms have four apartments); FEMA shelter; and renovation of Reynolds Hall.

2014

Dr. Alan D. Marble is appointed president after serving as interim.

2012

The University begins a year-long celebration of its 75th anniversary.

2010

The newly-renovated Mission Hills Mansion opens as the Ralph L. Gray Alumni Center along with the state-of-the-art Health Science building.

2009

The George S. Beimdiek Recreation Center and Willcoxon Student Health Center officially opened.

2008

Dr. Bruce W. Speck is named president.

2007

After serving 25 years as only the third President of Missouri Southern State University, Julio S. León announced his retirement. Dr. Terri Agee is appointed interim president.

2006

The first group of students receives their master's degrees

2003

On July 12, Governor Bob Holden signed a bill on the Missouri Southern campus that elevated the status of the institution from College to University.  The legislation officially became effective on Aug. 28, 2003.

2002

A September 11 memorial service and dedication of a memorial "Flag of Freedom" plaza was held at Missouri Southern.

1995

Governor Mel Carnahan signed legislation that authorized Missouri Southern State College to establish international education as a distinctive theme of its mission. 

1992

Richard M. Webster Communications and Social Science Building is opened.

1990

The Board of Regents approved a recommendation to pursue an international approach to undergraduate education. 

1982

Dr. Julio León becomes president. 

1977

Dr. Floyd Belk serves as interim President until Dr. Donald C. Darnton assumes the presidency in 1979.

1972

The college is renamed Missouri Southern State College.

1969

The college awarded first baccalaureate degrees to 198 students.

1967

The new 320-acre campus is opened under the direction of the first appointed president, Dr. Leon C. Billingsly.

1965

Legislation is passed creating the four year institution known as Missouri Southern College.

1964

The college adopts the official name of "Jasper County Junior College" under the direction of the Junior College District of Jasper County governed by a Board of Trustees.

1937

Joplin Junior College is established under the supervision of the Extension Division of the University of Missouri and held in the Joplin High School Joplin and H.E. Blaine is named first Dean.