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Dear university community,

I’d like to start by celebrating our graduates this semester. To our more than 4,800 graduating , , and : Congratulations. You’ve put in years of work to earn your degrees – an expected challenge – but you’ve also addressed unexpected challenges over the past nine months. I am so proud of you and look forward to seeing what you accomplish next.

I also remain proud of our entire university community for working together to carry on our core missions of teaching, research and engagement. We’ve accomplished incredible things in service to our community. At MU, we’re working to maximize the success of students and faculty through personal connection. The is connecting transfer students with Mizzou student mentors, and like The Huddle are supporting newly-recruited faculty with mentorship and community. UMKC has had a , including a to address substance use disorders. At Missouri S&T, alumnus Tim Bradley and wife Kay gave a that will strengthen the connection between Missouri S&T and the Rolla community.

"This year, our efforts to strengthen wellness in our community have taken on special significance."

This year, our efforts to strengthen wellness in our community have taken on special significance, too. At UMSL, the College of Nursing debuted a training module that . MU Extension opened the , a free beekeeping program that serves veterans by teaching new skills and providing opportunity for camaraderie. The MU School of Medicine’s COVID-19 and Kids Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) programs to aid in COVID-19 decision-making. Our highest capital priority, NextGen Precision Health, has made as well.

"Our highest capital priority, NextGen Precision Health, has made major strides forward as well."

I hope that you’ll reflect on your accomplishments as you enjoy the holiday season. Please remember to remain vigilant and protect the health of yourself and those around you by wearing face coverings, practicing social distancing and following hygiene recommendations. Our health care leaders have been hard at work and we are seeing historic moments of accomplishment right here in Missouri, such as the this month. For other stories of achievement, please see the year’s top stories from , , and .

“Our health care leaders have been hard at work and we are seeing historic moments of accomplishment right here in Missouri.”

As we greet 2021, we’ll revitalize our work and move further along our path to progress. If you have a story to share about the important work our university does, email president@umsystem.edu.

Have a restful holiday season and a joyful New Year!