A generous donation from a late Joplin Junior College graduate has helped kick off a new scholarship program at Missouri Southern.
Beginning in Fall 2021, the new Global Leaders program will accept 50 students each year. Students will be invited to apply based on a combination of ACT and GPA scores – selected from the “Premier” band of the new MOSO Merit Scholarships.
Each participant in the program will have access to $4,000 in private funds that can be used toward international travel, leadership development, undergraduate research and travel to academic conferences.
Recipients will also have the opportunity to interact with nationally and globally recognized executives in business, healthcare, politics, the military, education and nonprofits; participate in trips to corporate headquarters for exposure to leadership in action; have access to service learning and networking opportunities; register for classes early; and live in dedicated learning community housing.
“One of the great strengths of Missouri Southern is the university’s unwavering commitment to students success,” said Dr. Dean Van Galen, during a recent press conference to announce the scholarship. “This new program builds upon that strength.”
The scholarship, which will be funded through private gifts through the Missouri Southern Foundation, was launched thanks to a $1 million gift from the estate of Joel Newby.
Newby served his country as a Marine in World War II before graduating from Joplin Junior College in 1947, before going on to a distinguished career in higher education as a professor at the University of Houston.
“He always expressed his desire to help students achieve their maximum potential despite their economic conditions,” said Van Galen. “His gift will provide ongoing support for the Global Leaders program, making today’s launch possible.”
Sallie Beard, president of the Missouri Southern Foundation, said she was pleased to acknowledge receipt of the gift.
“While the Foundation has received some very generous gifts in its history, the opportunity put a $1 million gift to use in supporting new, exciting program is worth stopping and celebrating,” she said.