Dear friends,
Dr. Robert Vartabedian
Transforming lives is more than a tagline. It’s how Missouri Western has operated since its founding 100 years ago. It’s 25,000 graduates who have changed their own lives, and the lives of their families, through a Missouri Western education.
This transformation is evident on the day of commencement. You can see it in our graduates’ faces, and in the faces of their family members and loved ones who have come to cheer them on with pride.
Our students come from all around the world, from all different backgrounds. No matter the circumstances, we remain committed to providing opportunity for all students. Our promise to students is this: If you work hard enough and rise to the occasion, you can get a high quality, affordable education, and your life will be transformed. That has been our commitment for 100 years, and it has never wavered.
The University’s evolution is truly remarkable. Our roots began as a Junior College, born out of the passion of St. Joseph’s community leaders in 1915. Now, we celebrate our thriving, master’s-level University with nearly 6,000 students from all over the United States and around the world.
As we kick off our Centennial year, we have two opportunities: commemorating our vibrant and rich history, and preparing for what’s sure to be a spectacular future.
In this issue of Missouri Western magazine, you will have the opportunity to read about the University’s history. You will also learn about our vision for the future. Our master planning efforts are ensuring that the University has the facilities we need to continue growing and serving. The Centennial Capital Campaign is leading this charge. We must continue to grow, to better serve our students and to deepen our impact on the region. The Centennial Capital Campaign is crucial as we lay the groundwork to continue transforming lives for generations to come. With your help, we will continue to evolve and thrive.
There’s never been a more exciting time to be a Griffon. I hope you join us as we celebrate our wonderful heritage, and begin our next 100 years of transforming lives.
Robert A. Vartabedian
President, Missouri Western State University