Aug. 19, 2024
Contact: Janese Heavin, heavinj@missouri.edu
Photos by Abbie Lankitus, Sam O'Keefe and Andy Ramirez
The University of Missouri is welcoming students back this fall with some new spaces, places and faces.
Mizzou faculty and staff spent the summer getting campus ready for students, which includes a freshman class of nearly 6,000. From revamping iconic spots to welcoming top-notch faculty, there’s a lot to be excited about this semester.
Here are five things to know as you start the year.
1. Construction crews were hard at work.
The most notable project of the summer? Francis Quadrangle. The Quad has been regraded, resodded and equipped with a state-of-the-art irrigation system. As part of the project, crews are replacing an 1880s underground utility tunnel outside of Jesse Hall with work set to wrap up by Nov. 1. Once that project is finished, expect to see the sidewalk extended to the north of Jesse, providing more space for events and gatherings.
There’s also a new entryway and large MU logo at Tiger Avenue, and a selfie-perfect M-I-Z statue will be installed next to the Reynolds Alumni Center this fall.
2. Enjoy a feast of new dining options.
Your taste buds are in for a treat. Mizzou is expanding its dining scene. Savor Kitchen, which serves up fresh and flavorful fare made without wheat, eggs, nuts, fish and other top allergens, is now open next to Johnston Hall. You can also get pizza by the slice at Do Mundo’s in the MU Student Center, or pick up sandwiches, salads and other grab-and-go bites at 11 locations across campus. Check out all dining options and menus here.
3. New leadership takes the reins.
Meet Mizzou’s provost and executive vice chancellor, Matthew Martens. Though new to the role, Martens is a familiar face at Mizzou, having served as interim provost since February and in senior leadership roles in the office for the past eight years. As provost, he’s all about enhancing the learning experience, ensuring students are prepared for the future and recruiting and retaining top-tier faculty.
Other familiar and new faces at Mizzou this year include:
- Kara Whatley, vice provost and university librarian.
- Marisa Chrysochoou, dean of the College of Engineering.
- Srinand “Sri” Sreevatsan, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine.
- Chris Smith, interim vice chancellor for advancement.
- Sarah Diem, interim dean of the College of Education and Human Development.
And be sure to welcome the many new faculty members starting this fall, including John Anderson, Mizzou alumnus and former acclaimed Sports Center anchor, who has joined the Missouri School of Journalism.
4. Gear up and mark your calendars.
Head over to The Mizzou Store and stock up for Black and Gold Fridays, which return Sept. 6 and College Colors Day, which is Aug. 30. Don’t miss out on new products, including new Mizzou-themed Nike footwear.
A few other note-worthy dates include:
- Thursday, Aug. 29: Cheer on the Tigers at the first home football game against Murray State. Watch your email for information about faculty staff and student parking on game day.
- Thursday, Aug. 29: Mizzou will launch a partnership with Lululemon, offering branded apparel, backpacks, belt bags and more.
- Saturday, Oct. 19: Don’t miss Mizzou Homecoming—Lead the Legacy. Be sure to wear gold.
5. Make the most of your Mizzou experience.
At Mizzou, learning extends beyond the classroom. One of the best ways to hone your organizational, communication and leadership skills is by getting involved. Kick things off with the Get Involved Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 3, at Kuhlman Court. Meet members of some of Mizzou’s 600+ student organizations, chat with an Involvement Ambassador and discover new interests. Visit the Involvement Week website to view all the events.
Then, plan to show off Mizzou to loved ones during Family Weekend Sept. 13-Sept. 15. Check out the many events and prepare to soak up all that campus and Columbia have to offer.
Curious about Mizzou’s future? Be sure to attend or tune in to the State of the University at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Jesse Auditorium as University of Missouri President Mun Choi outlines the university’s priorities for the coming school year.
