Missouri Western State University: Notable Alumni and Their Achievements
Missouri Western State University (MWSU), located in St. Joseph, Missouri, has a rich history and a diverse alumni base. Originally founded in 1915 as St. Joseph Junior College, the institution has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. This article highlights some of the university's most notable alumni, showcasing their contributions to various fields, including sports, politics, and the arts.
From Junior College to State University: A Historical Overview
The journey of Missouri Western State University began in 1915 when it was established as St. Joseph Junior College, holding courses in the original location of Central High School. The college relocated in 1933 to the Robidoux Polytechnic High School building. A pivotal moment arrived in 1969, during Warren Hearnes' second term as governor, when the institution achieved four-year status and was renamed Missouri Western College. The college acquired the farm of St. Joseph State Hospital #2 for its campus. The institution's name changed to Missouri Western State College in 1973, marking its full integration into the state's higher education system in 1977. The designation as Missouri Western State University came in 2005, accompanied by the authorization to grant master's degrees. The university graduated its first 12 master's degree recipients in May 2009.
Notable Alumni
Missouri Western State University has produced a number of accomplished individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Here are some notable alumni:
Athletics
Jonathan Owens: An American football safety currently playing for the Chicago Bears in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Missouri Western and signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He has also played for the Houston Texans and Green Bay Packers. He is married to American artistic gymnast Simone Biles.
Greg Zuerlein: An American professional football placekicker for the New York Jets of the NFL. He played college football at Nebraska-Omaha and Missouri Western. He previously played for the St. Louis / Los Angeles Rams and the Dallas Cowboys.
David Bass Jr.: A former American football linebacker who played for five seasons in the NFL. He was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round of the 2013 NFL draft. He was also a member of the Chicago Bears, Tennessee Titans, Seattle Seahawks, and New York Jets.
Gijon Robinson: A former American football tight end and fullback. He was signed by the Indianapolis Colts of the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2007.
Roger Allen III: A former American football guard who played college football at Missouri Western State University.
Clay Rush: A former American football kicker who played in the Arena Football League (AFL) from 1999 to the original league's folding in 2008.
Jim Wright: A former professional baseball pitcher who played parts of two seasons in the major leagues for the Kansas City Royals, appearing in 17 games during the 1981 season and seven games during the 1982 season.
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Politics and Public Service
Elijah J. L. Haahr: An American attorney and politician who served as a member of the Missouri House of Representatives, representing the 134th district from 2013 to 2021.
Esther George: The former president and chief executive of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City from 2011 until 2023.
Arts and Culture
- Charles Bruffy: An American choral conductor. He is the artistic director of the Kansas City Chorale in Kansas City, Missouri, and is Chorus Director of the Kansas City Symphony.
Coaching
Paul Rhoads: An American football coach, currently a Defensive Analyst at Mississippi State University. He is best-known for his seven-year tenure as head coach at Iowa State.
Brian Boyer: A former American college basketball coach.
Missouri Western's Impact
Missouri Western State University has played a crucial role in the educational and cultural landscape of St. Joseph, Missouri, and beyond. Its graduates have gone on to achieve success in various fields, reflecting the university's commitment to providing a well-rounded education.
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Academic Growth and Recognition
Missouri Western has demonstrated significant academic growth, particularly in its graduate programs. In its first six years of offering graduate degrees, graduate enrollment at Western grew substantially each year. This growth reflects the university's commitment to expanding its academic offerings and meeting the evolving needs of its students and the community.
Applied Learning Focus
Missouri Western has been designated as Missouri's Applied Learning Institution, emphasizing hands-on learning and practical experience for its students. This focus on applied learning prepares graduates for success in their chosen careers and contributes to the economic development of the region.
Community Engagement
Missouri Western is deeply engaged with the local community, hosting events such as the Kansas City Chiefs summer training camp. This partnership brings economic benefits to the region and provides students with valuable opportunities to interact with professionals in their fields. The $15.7 million facility was funded by contributions from the Chiefs, student fees, and support from the City of St. Joseph, Buchanan County, and private donations.
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