Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, MoWest’s president, and Dr. Ashly McGinnis. St. Joseph School District, sign an agreement to launch a direct admit program for St. Joseph School District graduates attending MoWest.
Aug. 22, 2025–Missouri Western State University and the St. Joseph School District have partnered to offer direct admission to MoWest for district graduates, starting with the Class of 2026. It’s the first partnership of its kind between a university and a school district in the state of Missouri.
“This is a proud day,” said Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, MoWest’s president. “This direct admission program creates new opportunities for graduates of the St. Joseph School District, and it sends a powerful message: we see you, we believe in you, and you belong here.”
“This partnership is a great opportunity for our students,” said Dr. Ashly McGinnis, superintendent of the St. Joseph School District. “Direct admission removes barriers and sends a clear message that higher education is within reach.”
Direct admission guarantees admission to graduates of Central, Benton and Lafayette High Schools that meet minimum academic criteria. Students just have to opt in to the program, complete a shortened application, and they will receive their direct admission letter.
“Direct admission is about opening doors,” said Dr. Andy Otto, vice president of enrollment management and marketing. “It reduces the stress and anxiety often associated with the college admissions process, and makes the path to higher education clear, simple and free of unnecessary barriers.”
Interested St. Joseph School District seniors can opt in to MoWest Direct Admission at griff.vn/DirectSJSD.
Missouri Western State University is a student-centered learning community preparing individuals for lives of excellence through applied learning. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit missouriwestern.edu.