MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY
Homecoming 2024 THE STANDARD
ACROSS CAMPUS
LEASING FOR FALL 2025
A note from the editors
October typically breeds a bit more chaos on the Missouri State University campus — midterms, Homecoming and fall break loom over campus.
Though the pressure can feel daunting, two months into the fall semester also breeds community and connection. Homecoming is quickly approaching on Oct. 19, and the frenzy of Homecoming activities will soon fill campus with laughter, school spirit and MSU pride.
Decorate Downtown kicks off Homecoming week festivities on Oct. 13, with various events to follow, including Chalk N’ Rock, Rockstar, MO State Live and more! The week concludes with the Homecoming parade and football game against Indiana State University.
Whether you plan to catch up on sleep during fall break, attend a Homecoming week event or cheer on the Football Bears, the editors of The Standard hope you find a moment of joy during October.
Sincerely,
Em, Liz and Jayden
Standard staff
Editors
Em Blackstone co-editor-in-chief
Liz Garcia co-editor-in-chief
Jayden Pettus co-editor-in-chief
W. Paul Bohlen sports editor
Reporters and visual artists
Maura Curran reporter
Arden Dickson photographer
Robin Garner reporter
Matthew Huff photographer
Daisha Jackson photographer
Jude Jenkins reporter
Spencer Justice photographer
Maddux Radosevic reporter
Mason Ray reporter
Madison Reece reporter
Cooper Sams reporter
Evan Sappington reporter
Homecoming 2024 THE STANDARD
Cover design by Liz Garcia
On the cover: Inspired by the Homecoming theme, Boomer on the Big Screen, which is described by the Homecoming committee as “all things Hollywood, entertainment and pop culture,” the cover reflects the cinema — a hotspot of entertainment.
THE STANDARD
is Missouri State University’s student-produced newspaper. The university has not approved and is not responsible for its content, which is produced and edited by the students on The Standard staff.
Faith Sappington reporter
Trey Swaggart reporter
Kaylee Vaughn photographer
Jackson Wright reporter
Aden Zuccarini reporter
Copy Editors
Isabel Gamble
Liliana Hayes
Maddie Tuning
Advertising staff
Cadance Ruth advertising designer
Caedran Yeidel advertising sales assistant
Professional staff
Jack Dimond faculty adviser
Monday
HOMECOMING WEEK SCHEDULE
12:01 AM : King and Queen voting opens
1 PM : Donation drive begins; Multicultural Resource Center and Center for Community Engagement
2:00 – 2:30 PM : Spirit Banner Judging; PSU
3:30 – 4:30 PM : Chalk N’ Rock; PSU north patio
5 – 6 PM : PSU window decorating; PSU north patio
Wednesday
4 PM : Field Day; Foster Recreation Center
Friday
2 PM : Donation drive ends; Multicultural Resource Center and Center for Community Engagement
4 PM : Maroon and White Night; PSU North Mall
5 PM : King and Queen Voting Ends
Sunday
10-11:30 AM : Decorate Downtown; Start at Meyer Alumni Center
Tuesday
7 PM : Rockstar; Hammons Student Center
Thursday 7:30 PM : MO State Live; Hammons Student Center
Saturday
9 AM : Band of Bears Homecoming Parade; John Q. Hammons Parkway
11 AM : Bear Fest Village Homecoming Tailgate; Bear Fest Village
2 PM : Bears Football Game, Homecoming Royalty Coronation
Bears to host Sycamores in Homecoming football game
W. PAUL BOHLEN SPORTS EDITOR DWPBOHLEN
Homecoming football is here, and the Missouri State University football team hasn’t looked quite this good in a while. The Bears welcome the Indiana State University Sycamores on Oct. 19, and as usual, the Homecoming King and Queen will be announced during the halftime break.
Here’s a look into everything you should know about the game before the day comes.
Filling the Cardiac Bears’ shadow
As of the time of publication, the Bears are 3-2, which is their best start since their 8-4 season in 2021 during Bobby Petrino’s tenure as head coach. His son-in-law and current Bears head coach Ryan Beard has shown that the team can still be competitive and even go on winning streaks.
The Bears need to continue demonstrating this competitive level with their impending move from the Missouri Valley Football Conference and the Football Championship Subdivision to Conference USA and the Football Bowl Subdivision.
Going into Homecoming, the team will have plenty of motivation to keep it up.
After a difficult start to the season, which saw two losses to the University of Montana and the FBS’ Ball State University that could’ve easily gone the other way, the Bears have gradually found their groove.
The first weekend left Missouri State as the most penalized team in the entire FCS, and the D-line in particular has struggled to get its personal fouls under control since.
Before their bye week, however, the Bears opened MVFC play with the Youngstown State University Penguins, putting up a powerful and intelligently played game with only a few moments of real issue. The Bears didn’t lose any significant yardage in the game, which was a
rapid shift from Montana, where they lost 113 yards on 12 penalties.
So far, the most successful part of the Football Bears this season is their powerful O-line led by Petrino’s son, Nick Petrino, who has shown himself to be a sharp play-caller like his father.
On the field, the offense is held in check by senior quarterback Jacob Clark, who is in the process of becoming perhaps one of the greatest QBs the school has ever seen.
Clark would have been the starter last year as well, but his season ended at the start of conference play due to a joint injury that required surgery. He’s back now and keeps getting better.
Against Youngstown State, his fifth game this year — a number he didn’t reach in 2023 — he put up his second-best passing yards and his best rushing yards of the season with 325 and 63 respectively. Since the second game of 2024, he’s thrown at least two touchdown passes per game.
Much of Clark’s success as the Bears’ quarterback comes from his fellow teammates on the O-line as well.
Clark’s go-to back in senior running back Jacardia Wright has had a spectacular time with Missouri State, and though he didn’t have as great a showing against Youngstown State, he’s still a dangerous man for the Sycamores to look out for.
Sophomore running back Jayden Becks hasn’t had the most electric place in the lineup, but he has shown great potential in the position as someone to step into Wright’s shoes when he graduates. Becks has scored two touchdowns this season.
Sophomore wide receiver Jmariyae Robinson has made a name for himself at Missouri State, playing a major role last year and becoming one of the most consistent and reliable receivers for the Bears this season. He has five TDs in five games and a total of 346 receiving yards in 2024.
Two unexpected stars have emerged for the
Missouri State offense, as well. Senior wide receiver Hunter Wood and junior tight end Lance Mason both earned accolades from their coaches after choice plays in the Bears’ wins against the University of Tennessee and Youngstown State.
The Bears hold the foundation for success in their defensive hands, but they have struggled to come together for a full game and that’s let some plays get through that never should have.
However, good things have come from defensive coordinator LD Scott’s side of the team.
Senior defensive end Jalen Williams has been a dominant performer in taking down opposing QBs, with four total sacks for a loss of 25 yards to his opponents. Williams also has 20 total tackles.
Redshirt freshman defensive lineman Caden Wiest has been off to a strong start with two total sacks for a loss of 12 yards during the Bears’ game against UT Martin, while forcing two fumbles and recovering one of the Skyhawks’ own.
Some of the best tacklers for Missouri State have been senior linebacker Tahj Chambers, with 45 total tackles, junior safety Todric McGee, with 42 and redshirt freshman linebacker Dallas Winner-Johnson, who has 37.
Senior defensive end Darion Smith has also been a consistent hitter for Missouri State.
The special teams unit has continued to surprise MSU fans as one of the most effective groups in Bear football. Senior punter Grant Burkett was a finalist for FCS Punter of the Year in 2023 and is on the watchlist this year. He continues to show, like in the Bears’ last home game when he put the line back to the opposition’s 3-yard line after a fourth down, why he is deserving of the praise.
Redshirt freshman kicker Yousef Obeid is as reliable as they get and senior long snapper Caden Bolz has rarely missed his mark.
The Sycamores have a lot to fight against this year, so let’s take a look at how they stack up against MSU.
Meet the 2024 Indiana State Sycamores
Indiana State had their bye week early in the semester, so they’re catching up to where MSU is now. As of publication, the Sycamores are sitting at a record of 1-4 overall, and 0-1 in conference. That places them at No. 10 of 11 in the MVFC.
Starting with their quarterback, the Sycamores have seemed to settle on redshirt freshman Elijah Owens as their guy. Owens played in four games in 2023 for the Sycamores, putting up 310 passing yards and going 22-47 for a pass completion of 46.8 percent.
Since then, Owens has improved, throwing 441 in three games this season with a pass completion of 74 percent. Still, it’s hard not to look at those numbers and see how Missouri State’s Clark regularly reaches Owens’ 2023 yard total in a single game.
Owens does have some considerable backs and receivers to look to for help.
Redshirt sophomore running back Plez Lawrence has a total of 205 rushing yards this season, including an impressive 160 from the Sycamores’ game against Houston Christian, with his longest being a rush of 89 yards.
Senior running back Shen Butler-Lawson has rushed for 106 yards this season for a single TD. Redshirt junior tight end Lance Rees has 27 receiving yards and 23 rushing yards for one rushing touchdown.
On the D-line, the Bears can look to battle some hearty opponents.
Senior linebacker Geoffrey Brown has 28 tackles so far, with half coming in a single game — Sept. 14’s match against the University of Dayton. Brown also has two sacks for a total of 9 yards.
For tackles and fumble recoveries, the Sycamores have senior linebacker Garret Ollendieck. He’s got 50 tackles in four games and two recoveries for 12 yards.
With 29 tackles and a forced fumble, redshirt junior defensive back Maddix Blackwell is another man the Bears will have to keep their eyes on.
There’s no denying that the Sycamores are
not a masterful team, and haven’t been one for a while. Still, everyone loves an underdog, and the Bears will need to play a full game to take the win for Homecoming.
Matchup history
The Bears lead the all-time series with the Sycamores 22-14, with a better record at home of 13-5 than on the road where Indiana State and Missouri State are tied 9-9. As of the last six meetings, the Bears have gone 5-1.
The last time the Sycamores beat the Bears was in 2019 during the final year of the Dave Steckel era at Missouri State, when the Bears went 1-10. Indiana State took the game 51-24.
This game, like all of the conference games for the Football Bears this year, will likely be the last time the teams meet, so these records will not be changed much by the win at Homecoming.
Challenges along the way
As we’ve covered in most of our football previews this year, the Bears’ biggest challenge
has been playing a full game. They’re getting there, with the offense coming together wonderfully and the defense well on its way. Special teams are already there.
Against Indiana State, the Bears will need to be cautious not to get in their heads that it’s an easy game. When a team thinks it has a gimme, it often falls apart.
It’s true that Indiana State has a poor record and has for years in football, but they have lots to prove in a defeat of the Bears. With that much to lose for the Bears and that much to win for the Sycamores, they’ll no doubt be trying to hit just that much harder when they come to Springfield for Homecoming.
It all goes down at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19 at Robert W. Plaster Stadium. The Homecoming King and Queen will be decided at halftime, but it’ll be a little longer before the winner of the game is crowned. As always, students get in free with their BearPass, and the game will be broadcast on ESPN+ and the Missouri State Radio Network with Art Hains and Corey Riggs.
Photo by Matthew Huff, Qhuff.photography
Junior tight end Lance Mason jumps over a Lindenwood Lions defender to score the Bears’ first touchdown in their 2814 victory on Saturday, Sept. 14.
Lights, camera, Homecoming!
JUDE JENKINS REPORTER Q_JUDEJENKINS
Missouri State University’s 2024 Homecoming theme, Boomer on the Big Screen, will guide this year’s Homecoming festivities, which officially kick off on Sunday, Oct. 13.
Chosen by the Homecoming Committee, Boomer on the Big Screen is meant to embrace all things Hollywood, entertainment and pop culture according to the 2024 Homecoming packet. The goal of Homecoming is to challenge creativity and emphasize MSU pride in students in a way that allows everyone to display “cultural competence, community engagement and ethical leadership throughout.”
The committee also urges students to apply the theme to the activities done throughout Homecoming Week. Decorating Downtown, the Banner Competition, PSU Window Painting, and many other activities provide a great opportunity for participants to express their creativity and what is important to them through the theme. The teams are split up into three divisions; student organizations, Residence Life organizations, and fraternity and sorority life.
Throughout all the activities, points will be awarded according to three main categories. These include the overall correlation to the theme, how well MSU pride was showcased and the overall talent of the craftsmanship, choreography, and performance used in the activity.
The Homecoming Committee is “excited to see what award-winning ideas participants choose to embrace the celebration with.”
File Photo/The Standard
MSU Pride Marching Band performing at the 2023 Homecoming game.
From Past to Present Alumni share their Homecoming memories and gratitude for MSU
COOPER SAMS REPORTER
There is no week on a college campus like Homecoming. It’s a time when current and past students alike can enjoy the traditions of MSU, and its importance is certainly not lost on those who once called campus home.
Lynn Parman, a 1995 Missouri State graduate — then known as Southwest Missouri State — and current chair of the Missouri State Board of Governors said she greatly enjoyed her time at MSU, calling it “a time of career discovery and a whole lot of fun.”
For Parman, Homecoming is something absolutely vital to the life of the university.
“It’s the only time of the year that unites MSU’s broader community in a common love for the university,” Parman said. “It’s an amplifier of how MSU has impacted our life.”
When she attended SMS, Homecoming was something Parman enjoyed immensely. In 1995, her boyfriend, now husband, Jason was a candidate, which Parman says only made that year more enjoyable.
While both Homecoming and the university have changed significantly since her time here, Parman said it has been for the better.
“We didn’t have the tailgating area, and the game is a bigger deal now,” Parman said. “Overall, MSU has elevated the experience over the years.”
This year’s festivities will also be particularly notable. The university will hold its first presidential inauguration since the 1993 inauguration of John Keiser, the university’s 8th president.
“I am excited to be part of this historical event that will honor our past and look forward to the future of MSU,” Parman said.
As a member of the Board of Governors, Parman continues looking for ways to continue improving Homecoming and the university, and she said she looks forward to what the years ahead have to offer.
1994 SMS graduate Amy Counts says that Homecoming has been similarly important in her life. Counts is a current MSU Foundation Board of Trustees member and was named the 2024 MSU Alumni Association’s Volunteer of the Year.
In 1993, Counts was a candidate for Homecoming Queen, and she recalls the essay she wrote to the nomination committee all those years ago. In her essay, Counts said
Missouri State Board of Governors at the Homecoming 2022 Onward Upward campaign event.
she hoped to one day give back to the university for the support it offered her.
“Reading the essay I wrote 31 years ago made me emotional as it’s a full circle moment to see that what I set out to do has come to fruition,” Counts said.
Now serving on the foundation board, and previously on the MSU Board of Governors,
Counts has more than fulfilled her goal, as she has become one of Missouri State’s most important alumni.
Staying involved and giving back to MSU is very important for Counts, and she does so for the same reasons as many involved alumni do.
“I stay involved because I want to see my
alma mater grow and prosper,” Counts said. “The university leadership team, faculty, staff and students have become close friends and MSU just feels like an extension of my family.”
This fall, Homecoming week will run from Oct. 13 to 19 bringing together alumni, students, faculty and staff in celebration.
Photo courtesy of Lynn Parman
Behind the scenes: Fraternity and sorority life prepares for Homecoming
LIZ GARCIA CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF QLIZ.VANESSA__
In the kitchen of the Alpha Chi Omega house, a painted twin bed sheet dries on a dining table with a few missing details that have to be added before their looming deadline the following day.
On Oct. 14, their “Barbie”-themed banner — inspired by MSU’s Homecoming theme Boomer on the Big Screen — will be displayed and judged in the Plaster Student Union for the Spirit Banner event. The twin bed sheet took nearly 20 hours to complete.
“That’s another thing with Homecoming is it’s a lot of preparation beforehand,” said Jane Simpson, a Homecoming co-chair for Alpha Chi Omega. “Since (the banner competition) is the week of Homecoming, there’s events every day, you can’t be painting the whole week.”
For the past six months, Homecoming has been top of mind for Simpson and Emily Hill, the other homecoming co-chair for Alpha Chi Omega. The comprehensive planning began in the spring, when the chapter picked Sigma Chi and Delta Chi as their fraternity pairings for Homecoming.
Even before then, when Alpha Chi Omega held leadership elections last fall, former chapter president Ella Iram asked Hill to be the 2024 Homecoming chair. However, Hill and Iram quickly voiced that the role would be too overwhelming for just one person.
Searching for her co-chair, Hill knew she needed someone reliable, and eventually phoned Simpson.
“I felt kind of honored that I was called to take on a big leadership position,” Simpson said.
Both sophomores at MSU, Simpson and Hill have only spent a year in Alpha Chi Omega, but got a small glimpse of what it takes to coordinate an entire event for their sorority of over 150 girls when they served as assistants for Greek Week this past spring.
Now, they’re in the hot seat, and have spent the fall logging painting hours, color-coordinating Excel spreadsheets and typing away in mass group chats. Each girl from the chapter is required to participate in Homecoming, whether it be performing for an event, painting a banner or decorating a float. Sigma Chi and Delta Chi have been constructing the Homecoming Parade float and set pieces for other events such as MO State Live.
This year’s Homecoming theme “embodies all things Hollywood, entertainment and pop
culture,” according to the 2024 MSU Homecoming packet.
Embracing the silver screen motif, Alpha Chi Omega refined their chapter’s Homecoming theme to a certain Blonde plastic doll that reigned over summer 2023. Their Greta Gerwig “Barbie”-inspired theme is further reflected by the chapter’s Homecoming Queen candidate Arden Dickson. Dickson created buttons advertising her campaign, reading “Arden 4 Queen” stylized in the signature Barbie font colored in pink.
Alpha Chi Omega’s “Barbie” theme is further entwined with their decoration designs, and serves as the foundation for their MO State Live performance. MO State Live is a creative performance event with music, dancing, acting and is meant to “showcase the organization’s pride for MSU and The Bears through fun performances,” according to the 2024 MSU Homecoming packet.
The Alpha Chi Omega member choreographing their chapter’s MO State Live performance is senior Hope Reeves. In early September, Reeves held tryouts for those wanting to perform in the event. Shortly thereafter, rehearsals began promptly. With the help of her co-choreographer Grace Rigabar, the two dancers had worked in their free time to choreograph a skit for 20 combined members from Alpha Chi Omega, Sigma Chi and Delta Chi. Now, the group rehearses three times a week for two hours.
The performance juggles the standard Barbie and Ken stereotypes, which are subverted by the end of the skit.
“We really wanted to play on that, and how Missouri State has really broken that stereotype, and that we can be whoever we want to be,” Reeves said. “College is the greatest opportunity to find yourself and figure out who you are.”
Reeves also enjoys getting to work with the MO State Live performers who have different levels of experience in dance, and watching everyone work together to execute a cohesive show.
Sophomore Josh Jubela, a pledge for Sigma Chi, has had fun being a performer for MO State Live, despite it being his first semester on campus and perhaps not having the best dancing skills.
“I kind of did it just because I wanted to get involved on campus,” he said. “I don’t dance — I’ve really never danced before — but it just seemed like a really good way to get involved, get to meet new people, and I really have enjoyed meeting everyone I’ve met so far.”
Working closely as a team and bonding with
by Corey
Fraternity and sorority members get together for an afternoon of field day-related activities at FSL Frenzy, a Homecoming event to bond and connect with fellow FSL students.
their fraternity pairings, Simpson and Hill have felt a greater sense of community. Simpson said she’s developed new relationships with girls from her chapter and enjoys connecting with members of Sigma Chi and Delta Chi she didn’t know before. Hill also values how inclusive Homecoming is.
“I think we’ve done a great job of including everybody, and I think Missouri State does that well,” Hill said. “We’re not only including (fraternity and sorority life), which is a huge part of Missouri State, but we’re including residence halls (and) clubs. Everybody has a chance to be a part of this, and that’s rare.”
Photo
Crumpton
2024 Homecoming Queen candidates
Where are you from?
Hidden in the heart of Missouri, my hometown is a hidden gem that sparkles with charm and excitement! One of the coolest things about the Lake of the Ozarks is that we’re a magnet for tourists from all over the world!
Where are you from?
St. Louis, Missouri. I love St. Louis because of our robust arts scene. I was super involved in local theater as a kid, and it is because of that community that I eventually found my way to Missouri State.
Eliana Borbe, Alpha Omicron Pi Maci Bartholomew, Sigma Sigma Sigma
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I decided to run for this position because I believe in the power of representation! I’m excited to stand for my chapter and the students of Missouri State University. My goal is to help students embrace loss, celebrate unity and create tradition.
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
MO State Live! This event is one of my most favorite Homecoming events! Get ready for one of the most exciting Homecoming events of the year! MO State Live is where the heart and creativity of Missouri State University truly shine!
What other campus organizations are you involved in?
Along with Sigma Sigma Sigma, I am a part of the Pre-Physician Assistant Society, the Biomedical Sciences Society and Women in STEM.
Arden Dickson, Alpha Chi Omega
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I decided to run for Homecoming Queen because I wanted to represent both my chapter and the arts as a whole. To me, Homecoming at Missouri State is about the past, present and future. By running as an arts-focused and FSL candidate, I hope to merge my interests into creating new a community.
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
I am sponsoring Maroon and White Night! I think it’s a great opportunity to connect with students and alumni before the game on Saturday. It’s awesome to have a chance to celebrate all the hard work of the week and meet new folks!
What’s your favorite part about Homecoming?
My favorite part about Homecoming is this is a time where the entire Missouri State, and Springfield community alike, come together to show their Mo State Pride! Homecoming includes all students, no matter the organization, and I love the atmosphere that brings!
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I chose to run as a Homecoming candidate because I want to be able to give every student at Missouri State a chance to be involved and make their Missouri Statement. Coming from out of state and understanding what it meant to be alone before joining organizations, I want to give everyone a chance to be involved.
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
I am sponsoring Royalty Blitz. I like this event because it is one of the first events that really kicks off homecoming, and gets a lot of organizations involved. Royalty Blitz includes 25 members helping the Royalty Candidates hang banners, write with chalk and overall help campaign!
Lindsey Ham, Alpha Delta Pi
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I have chosen to run for Homecoming Queen to hopefully give a voice to those who need it. I have found my home and the people I love the most at Missouri State, but finding your people can be hard. Often, college is the biggest life adjustment students have had to face yet, and students can feel like a small fish in a big pond. I know this was the case for me, and I want other students to know they are not alone, and someone at MSU cares about you!
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
I am sponsoring Plaster Student Union Window Painting. This event occurs Oct. 14t at 5 - 6 p.m. ... It is all about creating a design ahead of time, and watching it come to life!
Kaylyn Hinkle, Alpha Sigma Alpha
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I am running for Homecoming Queen because I am deeply passionate about Missouri State University and believe in the power of community. I have been heavily involved on campus and I have enjoyed connecting with
students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds. I have volunteered and made many connections in our local community which has given me a broader perspective on how we can support each other.
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
I am excited to sponsor Field Day because it’s a fantastic opportunity to foster school spirit and bring everyone together! Each team or
organization will participate in multiple challenges that test them academically and athletically, adding an engaging competitive element that makes it fun for everyone.
What are your plans post-graduation?
After graduation I plan to continue working as an Energy Risk Management Specialist at Associated Electric Cooperative Inc. in Springfield.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Borbe’s campaign Instagram is Qelianaforqueen.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Dickson’s campaign Instagram is Qarden4queen.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Hinkle’s campaign Instagram is Qkaylyn4Queen.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Ham’s campaign Instagram is Qlindsey4queen.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Bartholomew’s campaign Instagram is Qmaci. for.queen.
2024 Homecoming King candidates
Carlos Abrams, Theta Chi
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I have chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate because of my love for Missouri State. I am highly involved across campus and understand what campus really has to offer. I feel like I am a good, realistic representative of the student body and want to advocate for student involvement across campus!
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
What’s your favorite part about Homecoming?
I really like seeing all of campus come together. It is a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends! Homecoming provides so many great opportunities to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things.
I am sponsoring MO State Live! I like this event because it promotes collaboration throughout FSL and is a great way to make new friends around campus. I would encourage students to participate in MO State Live because it’s a great way to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new and fun.
What are your plans post-graduation?
After graduation, I plan to pursue my Doctorate in Physical Therapy, ideally at Missouri State University, though I’m also considering schools in Texas and Arkansas. My ultimate goal is to work as a physical therapist for a professional sports team. However, I’m equally passionate about serving wherever I’m needed — whether that’s in pediatrics, geriatrics or any other area. My main focus is to make a meaningful impact by helping as many people as I can.
Where are you from?
I’m from Doha, Qatar. One thing I love about my hometown is how close-knit and generous the community is. There’s always been a strong sense of support and togetherness, which has influenced how I approach connecting with others here at MSU.
Hanes Koshy, Christian Campus House
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I chose to run because I believe this platform can be used to glorify God and inspire my peers to embrace being bold and stepping outside their comfort zones. My tagline is to step into your royalty, and to do that you need to overcome your fears and be able to embrace your outcomes not reaching your expectations. This is important to me since I’ve wanted to run for Homecoming King for the past two years and have always just shied away fearing loss, but now I realize that Homecoming is a time for embracing fears, being united and having fun.
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
I’m sponsoring Chalk N’ Rock this year! This event is special because it’s such a fun and creative way to show off our campus and our talented students. I’ve enjoyed chalking on campus for two years doing outreach for CCH and it’s always been a great opportunity to connect with others, express yourself artistically and spread positive messages. I encourage everyone to come out and be part of the community!
What other campus organizations are you involved in?
Psychology Club and Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB).
Corey Crumpton, Lambda Chi Alpha
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I chose to run as a Homecoming candidate because of the incredible experiences and relationships Missouri State has given me. I want to give back to the university that has already offered me so much. I still remember being a nervous, scared freshman, unsure of what to expect. The people here were incredibly welcoming, and the campus organizations provided me with leadership opportunities, lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
Rockstar is one of my favorite Homecoming events because it showcases the incredible singing and dancing talents from people across different organizations. The energy and support during Rockstar are unmatched, with the crowd coming alive to cheer on the performers. The diverse selection of songs allows everyone to either sing along to their favorites or discover new music. It’s the perfect way to kick off Homecoming week — filled with music, dancing and an electric atmosphere.
Devon Marshall, Tau Kappa Epsilon
Why have you chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate?
I’ve chosen to run as a Homecoming candidate because I genuinely want to get more involved with my school and foster a sense of community among students. Homecoming is such an important tradition, and I believe it’s a great opportunity to bring everyone together and celebrate our school spirit.
Which Homecoming event are you sponsoring?
I’m sponsoring the Decorate Downtown event for Homecoming, and I absolutely love this event because it brings everyone together to showcase our school spirit and creativity. Decorating downtown is a fantastic way to engage the whole community and set the tone for an exciting Homecoming week.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Abrams’ campaign Instagram is Qcarlosforking.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Crumpton’s campaign Instagram is Qcoreyforking24.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Koshy’s campaign Instagram is Qkoshy4king.
Photo by Spencer Justice Qspence_shots Marshall’s campaign Instagram is Qdev_for_ king.
Recent accomplishments by MSU faculty
MSU choral director and 10-year-old son summit Mount Kilimanjaro
COOPER SAMS REPORTER
An MSU professor is headed to teach in Nigeria in January after being selected to receive the prestigious Fulbright Scholar award.
Paul Ajuwon is originally from Nigeria and has worked throughout his career to improve the lives of disabled people as part of the School of Special Education, Leadership and Professional Studies.
The Fulbright Scholar award allows scholars to travel worldwide, teaching or conducting projects and research. Kayla Lewis, interim director of the School of Teaching, Learning and Developmental Sciences, described Ajuwon as “a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for people with disabilities.”
“This Fulbright Award is a true reflection of (Ajuwon’s) lifelong dedication to enhancing education and accessibility for all,” Lewis said. “We are proud to celebrate (Ajuwon) and this significant accomplishment.”
While Ajuwon has now been teaching at Missouri State for two decades, he started off teaching as a young man in his secondary school.
“While in the school I attended in Lagos, the head nun called me one day to her office and said I would be assigned a tutoring assignment, for three days per week, with some chicken change, to my delight,” he said.
After secondary school, Ajuwon continued his education at Vanderbilt University, receiving a bachelor’s and master’s degree in English and special education, before returning to Nigeria to teach.
Later, Ajuwon attained a doctorate in special education and rehabilitation studies from the University of Cal-
gary in Canada. However, when he completed his studies at Calgary, Ajuwon was not able to return to Nigeria due to the military dictatorship that headed the country at the time.
Despite not being able to return home, Ajuwon found a way to continue his work when the City Schools of Cleveland, Ohio, offered him a position as a special education consultant, which he accepted.
During his time in Cleveland, Ajuwon would work towards developing programs for blind and visually impaired students. Later, Ajuwon became the principal of the Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind, before coming to Missouri State.
Ajuwon said he appreciates the support the United States dedicates to its disabled individuals, and he believes that through his and
others’ work, Nigeria and other developing countries can reach a similar level of support.
“We are making progress, but it’s a huge task to improve the quality of education and social services to the level that we see here,” Ajuwon said.
While in Nigeria, Ajuwon will be teaching and researching at the University of Calabar. He hopes to continue working with them even after he returns to Missouri State in July. His goal is to eventually establish a foundation that will partner both MSU and the University of Calabar, and continue the mission of improving services and education for disabled individuals.
“I want to keep the momentum going, to maintain the Fulbright spirit, it won’t end with my visit next year,” said Ajuwon.
CADEN TURNER REPORTER
Cameron LaBarr, choral director at Missouri State University, has been on many trips local and abroad, but never one quite like this.
In August, LaBarr, alongside his 10-year-old son Elliott, summited Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest freestanding mountain in the world.
The trek tested new limits for Cameron and Elliott, hiking over 19,000 feet. However, years of hiking prepared them for the experience.
“We’ve been hiking since he was an infant,” Cameron said, referring to Elliott’s earliest treks strapped to his back.
Once Elliott turned five, the two began their first of many “guy’s trips.”
Over the years, the father-son duo went from exploring nearby landmarks like Table Rock Lake to conquering new heights at Yosemite National Park, Glacier National Park and even taking a trip to Alaska.
Throughout the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the two, alongside a few of Cameron’s friends from Pretoria, were led by certified guides with Tanzania National Parks. These guides would perform routine checkups on all the hikers, including twice-daily checkups on oxygen and heart rate levels. Each member took medication to treat altitude sickness and drank 4-6 liters of water a day.
“This was certainly very much a first for me,” Cameron said.
On day three of the seven-night journey, Cameron and Elliott went through a “threshold” of altitude elevation. Starting at 12,500 feet, they progressed up to 15,000 feet, and then back down to 14,000 feet.
“The only thing is just a little bit of altitude sickness,” Cameron said regarding the roadblocks the two faced. “Some nausea and some headaches, for sure; for both of us.”
Like Cameron and Elliott’s previous “guy’s trips,” summiting Mount Kilimanjaro is just
one of many moments that strengthen their father-son bond.
“I think the most special thing is spending time with my son,” Cameron said. “These trips give us some purpose behind it, but frankly we can go about anywhere and really enjoy ourselves.”
Since this most recent expedition was unlike anything prior, Cameron and Elliott have yet to decide what’s in store for them in the future.
“We’ll probably keep things domestic next year,” Cameron said.
Outside of directing Missouri State choirs at events around the world, such as the MSU Chorale at the 58th Presidential Inauguration, and most recently directing the same choir at multiple music festivals in South Korea, Cameron still finds time to go on annual trips with Elliott.
“Travel is a part of who I am for sure, but these experiences with my son are second to none really,” Cameron said.
Photo submitted by Cameron LaBarr Cameron LaBarr and his son, Elliott, take a break while climbing the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. “I think the most special thing is spending time with my son,” Cameron said of the journey.
Photo by Emily Yeap
MSU Professor Paul Ajuwon was recently awarded with a Fulbright Scholarship. The award allows scholars to travel to teach or conduct projects and research.
MSU Professor Paul Ajuwon awarded prestigious Fulbright Scholarship
WELCOME HOME win!
