Vol. 25 No. 22 - February 22, 2021

Features

  • Rice Named Director of Diversity and Inclusion

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    Dr. Saint Rice has been selected to serve as the director of Truman’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI).

    Throughout his career, Rice has been a passionate advocate for education and has a track record of directing instructional programs to meet the needs of students and organizations. He has more than 15 years of experience in administrative leadership in the fields of higher education and criminal justice, including six years as a trainer and facilitator of diversity, equity and inclusion curricula.

    “I was excited about the possibilities after meeting with President Thomas, Vice President Stoskopf and other Truman State University colleagues and students,” Rice said. “My wife and I left the campus feeling diversity and inclusion are not separate issues on a list of objectives that must be accomplished. Diversity, inclusion and belonging are strategically infused on all levels, and I look forward to adding my experience and knowledge to the next level of success.”

    Rice has experience in higher education through various roles with multiple institutions including Lincoln College, the University of Phoenix, Harris-Stowe State University and St. Louis Community College. During his time at Lindenwood University he served as the assistant dean for Accelerated Degree Programs where he contributed to academic planning, enhancement of programs, curriculum, scholarship, professional accreditation, recruitment of faculty, faculty development and evaluation, student recruitment, advising, budget development and allocation of resources.

    “My professional experiences in higher education and the criminal justice system give me a different perspective on the issues related to diversity, equity, social justice and the need to create a more inclusive society,” Rice said. “I have learned diversity and inclusion are more than a conversation about race or gender. In addition, conversations centered on topics of diversity are not simply about societal differences and how to celebrate those variances. Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging require healthy working relationships built on trust, mutual respect, mindfulness, and open and honest communication.”

    Rice earned his doctor of education from Maryville University with a concentration in higher education leadership and administration. He also has a master’s degree in criminal justice administration and a bachelor of arts degree in communication, both from Lindenwood University.

    As the director for the CDI, Rice will be responsible for serving the University community by supporting diverse groups academically, emotionally and socially. He will also serve as a resource for campus departments regarding training and programming needs and play a key role in providing oversight for the implementation of the Strategic Plan for Diversity and Inclusion, which is currently in development.

    The CDI offers students assistance in the areas of identity development, intersectionality, inter-group relations and justice to develop a consciousness for the common good and the global community. More information about the CDI is available at diversity.truman.edu.

    Rice will officially join the Truman community and begin his duties May 24. In the interim, he will devote a number of hours per week to Truman in an effort to familiarize himself with University programs, students and colleagues.
  • Truman Earns Bicycle Friendly University Certification

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    Truman earned bronze status on the 2020 list of Bicycle Friendly Universities.

    The League of American Bicyclists honored Truman as one of 38 institutions in the country to renew its award status as a Bicycle Friendly University in 2020. Besides Truman, there are only two other Missouri universities on the complete list of 212 bicycle friendly universities.

    Applications to the Bicycle Friendly University program are graded on how well the campus makes biking an easy and accessible option for everyone. The BFU program evaluates schools’ efforts to promote bicycling in five primary areas: engineering, encouragement, education, enforcement and evaluation/planning. Truman was awarded bronze status because it has room to grow but exhibits a strong commitment to promoting and enabling safe, accessible bicycling on campus.

    At Truman bicycles are an important part of daily transportation and a great way to live more sustainable. Truman has resources available that highlight topics like: bike safety, bike etiquette, bike parking, preferred routes for bike travel and other important tips. Truman’s Bike Co-op, located by the Adair House, is available to provide tools, parts, space and assistance to maintain bikes. Students may register their bikes with Public Safety, which helps administration on campus better understand the demand for bicycle amenities.

    Every four years, institutions must reapply to the BFU program, and many strive to upgrade their award by investing resources into making their campuses more welcoming to people who bike. For more information about the League of American Bicyclists visit their website here.
  • Town Hall Series Allows for Student Participation

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    In March, Truman will conduct a series of virtual town halls designed to give students the opportunity to be a part of a conversation about what has been an unusual academic year.

    Four separate town halls – one for each academic class – are scheduled for the weeks before and after spring break. Students will be asked to sign up in advance, and they have the option to submit a question that could be addressed during the livestream events.

    Moderated by President Sue Thomas, each event will feature a panel of faculty, staff or administrators. Panelists will be determined based on the questions submitted by students so that individuals with the proper expertise will be able to provide answers.

    Each town hall will begin at 5 p.m., and students are advised to register for the event that corresponds to their specific class rank:

    Freshmen, First-Year Students

    March 2

    Sophomores
    March 3

    Juniors

    March 16

    Seniors and Graduate Students

    March 17
  • Art Gallery Seeks Exhibition Submissions

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    Natalie Gruber, “Insectology,” CMYK screenprint, 2020

    The University Art Gallery is currently accepting submissions for the annual Juried Student Exhibition.

    Truman students may submit up to three artworks for no fee. An online entry form for each piece of work must be completed by Feb. 27. Students must drop off their works in Ophelia Parrish 1114 between 3-6 p.m. Feb. 28 or 8:30-10 a.m. March 1. More information and the online entry form can be found here. The annual Juried Student Exhibition will run from March 16 through April 15 in the University Art Gallery.

    The guest juror for this exhibition is Nick Satinover, associate professor of print media at Middle Tennessee State University. He will give an artist talk from 4:30-5:30 p.m. March 2 via Zoom. Visit gallery.arttruman to sign up.
  • Survey to Assess Mental Health Needs

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    Truman is partnering with The Healthy Minds Network for a survey to assess the mental health needs of students.

    All currently enrolled students should have received an email with a link to the survey, which can be taken through March 7. The confidential information provided to faculty and administration from this study reflects students’ day-to-day experiences on campus and provides insight into both their struggles and successes. This knowledge will be used to inform policy, practice and funding for programs and services on campus, thus bettering student life.

    All JED Campus colleges and universities participate in the HMN survey. Using validated measures, the survey results will provide a detailed look at the prevalence of mental health problems, service utilization and related behaviors, attitudes and knowledge among a representative sample of students at participating institutions. HMN’s survey research has a special emphasis on understanding help-seeking behavior, examining stigma, knowledge and other potential barriers to mental health service utilization.

    Data from the survey can be used to: strengthen grant applications; advocate for mental health services and programs on campus; evaluate existing programs; assess need for programs and services; raise awareness of mental health and campus resources; and make comparisons with peer institutions.  

    Students can check their email by searching “Healthy Minds Survey” or “healthyminds-Truman@umich.edu” to make sure it was not redirected to a spam folder.

Announcements

  • Make a COVID-Smart Plan for Break

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    During their weekly meeting, members of the Faculty Senate COVID-19 Working Group, Nancy Daley-Moore, Scott Alberts and Christine Harker, recently discussed cases on campus and in the community, as well as making a plan for spring break.

    Case numbers related to Truman decreased for the week of Feb. 16, and numbers in the county have also slowed, but the group warned this could potentially be an artificial decline if exposed individuals are not getting tested. Everyone should continue to wear a mask, wash their hands and maintain a social distance. They should also consider getting vaccinated when they have the opportunity.

    Students and employees are also encouraged to start making a plan for spring break the week of March 8. Anyone who chooses to travel during that time should consider getting a test prior to their departure and return, and they should plan for time to quarantine before and after their trip. Students returning home should work with their family for a plan while they are visiting, and faculty members might want to consider virtual options before and after break to allow for their students to quarantine until they know they do not pose a risk to others.

    A recording of their conversation can be found here.
  • Summer Classes Allow More Time to Comprehend Class Material

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  • Career and Grad School Week Returns in Virtual Format

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    This year’s Career and Graduate School Expo will take place virtually Feb. 23-25.

    To start off the festivities, the Career Center will host an all-virtual Expo Bootcamp, Feb. 23. A professional statement workshop will take place from 5-6 p.m. From 6-8 p.m., there will be a resume workshop, a presentation to register for the Career Fair and a presentation on how to do a successful interview.

    The next event will be the Virtual Graduate and Professional School Expo where students will get a chance to speak with recruiters from grad schools and learn about opportunities in their field. This will take place from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 24. To finish the week off, the Virtual Career and Internship expo will take place 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Feb. 25.

    To learn more or to register for these events, go to hiretruman.truman.edu then to Student/Alumni Login followed by events, career fairs and select career fair of choice. Click on attend in the upper right corner of the page to formally sign up. With any questions regarding times or function of the event, go to career.truman.edu or email the Career Center at ucc3@truman.edu. These events will be accessed from #HireTruman.
  • Housing Self-Selection Starts Feb. 23

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    Students interested in living on campus during the 2021-22 school year can now make arrangements to do so.

    Living on campus provides easy access to campus amenities, as well as built-in fun and friendship. Researchers have found living on campus improves the likelihood a student will persist in college and go on to earn a bachelor’s degree.

    Residence Life has several options for students who want to live on campus including single residence hall rooms, apartments and suites for up to four roommates. Spaces are available in Blanton-Nason-Brewer Hall as well as Centennial, Dobson, Missouri and Ryle halls. West Campus Suites and Campbell Apartments are also available, and Truman will once again offer pet-friendly housing in Dobson Hall.

    Self-selection for housing will follow a schedule based on minimum credit hour requirements:

    8 a.m. Feb. 23
    Students that have earned 75 credit hours or more

    8 a.m. Feb. 24
    Students that have earned 45-74 credit hours

    8 a.m. Feb. 25
    Students that have earned 30-44 credit hours

    Feb. 26-March 22
    Any returning student may select housing.

    Housing renewal applications are currently open on TruView. Under the “Student” tab, click on “Housing Portal.” Some scholarships can be put toward the cost of living on-campus. For questions about the housing renewal process visit truman.edu/residence-life or contact Residence Life at 660.785.4227 or reslife@truman.edu.
  • Food Packs Available for Students

    Truman students experiencing food insecurity can utilize the Truman Food Bank. Pre-made food packs can be picked up with a Truman ID at the SERVE Center located in Student Union Building 1106 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday or Friday. Students can also submit a request here.

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  • Virtual Research Competition Open to All Graduate Students

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    Truman’s third annual Three-Minute Thesis Competition will take place Feb. 27, providing students an opportunity to highlight their graduate-level research.

    For the competition, participants will create a single slide that conveys their study. They will then have three minutes to discuss their research and its importance. Any original graduate research qualifies. It can be a scientific study, a discussion on a student’s creative writing adventure or musical composition. Current graduate students cannot submit research completed as an undergraduate.

    Due to the pandemic, the local and regional competitions are virtual. Students will record a three-minute presentation following the guidelines set forth by Queensland University. They will also need an introductory slide that will includes their name, title of presentation, faculty member and department. The single research slide appears right after, and as soon as the student starts speaking, the timer begins.  

    The first-place prize is $75, with second place earning $50. The winner of the competition is then eligible to compete in the regional Midwest Association of Graduate Studies competition.  

    Registration can be completed at Truman’s Three-Minute Thesis Competition website. The deadline for submitting a video is Feb. 24. The previous system for judging requires updating due to the virtual format. Final details will be provided when they are available. For more information, contact Julia Edgar, associate professor of communication disorders at jedgar@truman.edu.
  • Musical to Run Online Feb. 24-27

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    The uniquely named musical “[title of show]” will be Truman Theatre’s third production of the year and will run nightly at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 24-27.

    To continue to create a safe and socially distanced atmosphere the musical will be presented entirely online. All of the actors are Truman students, each with their own space where they will be preforming in front of a camera while the entire production is streamed live from the James G. Severns Theatre.

    A musical by Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell, “[title of show]” follows two struggling writers on their journey to write a musical for a new theatre festival. However, the deadline for submission is only three weeks away. In an attempt to beat the clock, they enlist the help of their friends to create an original musical. With the cast in place, they hit another roadblock: what should they write about? They decide to follow the saying “write what you know” and embark on a unique adventure to write a musical about writing a musical. Taken from the space on the festival’s application form which asks for the “title of show” they draw the title inspiration for their work.  

    “[title of show]” is appropriate for audience members 13 and older. It contains profane language, but ultimately features an inside look at the tough work of being a creative artist. Runtime is approximately 90 minutes.

    Tickets are $6 and available now at boxoffice.truman.edu. Once a ticket has been purchased detailed information on how to access the live stream will be provided. There is a limit of 250 audience members per performance.   

    For more information, contact the Truman Theatre Box Office at 660.785.4515 between 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.


  • Rec Offers Free Body Composition Testing

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    The Student Recreation Center is offering free body composition testing from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 24 and 2-4:30 p.m. Feb. 25 in room 218. Participants are eligible for a blood pressure reading, body mass index and three-site skinfold measurements. Participants can sign up for a 15-minute appointment at the weight room desk or by emailing dreamweaver@truman.edu.
  • Bulldog Break Highlights Gift and Estate Planning

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    The next edition of Bulldog Break, a webinar series sponsored by the Office of Advancement, will present “Navigating Your Future with Gift Planning.”

    In this one-hour webinar, Truman alumni with extensive experience in the field of gift/estate planning will help navigate the subject of gift planning, as well discuss a variety of giving options that can help donors support causes important to them while also taking care of their families. The panelists will also answer questions submitted by webinar attendees.

    This Bulldog Break will take place at 12 p.m. Feb. 24 via Zoom. To register for one of the free 100 spots, click here. For more information, email bulldogforever@truman.edu.
  • Student Government to Screen “Land of Opportunity”

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    The Student Government Diversity Committee will host a showing of the film “Land of Opportunity.” The event is free of charge and will take place at 6 p.m. Feb. 25 in Baldwin Hall 102.

    “Land of Opportunity” is the story of integration in Kansas City’s Santa Fe Place neighborhood as one example in the fight for housing rights across America following the Great Depression. This event will explore the legacy of racially discriminative housing policies and celebrate the pioneers who helped transform these barriers.

    To watch the film and participate in the discussion via Zoom, email Kennedy Cooper for the link and more information.
  • Pre-McNair Fellows Program Presents Informational Session

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    Truman’s Pre-McNair Fellows program is hosting a virtual informational session from 7-8 p.m. Feb. 25. This program is open to any McNair-eligible freshmen or sophomores who want to get a sense of the services offered and do career and grad school exploration with one of the certified senior peer mentors. Interested students who are unable to attend the session can find out if they are eligible and get more information about Pre-McNair by completing this form found on the program’s website.  
  • Colloquium Examines Afghanistan/Pakistan Borderland

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    “Lessons Unlearnt: Imperialism and Resistance in the Afghanistan/Pakistan Borderland” will take place 7 p.m. Feb. 25 on Zoom.

    This presentation will feature Sameetah Agha, a professor of social science and cultural studies at Pratt Institute. She is also the author of “The Limits of Empire: Sub-Imperialism and Pukhtun Resistance in the North-West Frontier.” Agha will focus on the imperial history of the Afghanistan/Pakistan borderland while situating the contemporary American experience in the context of Pukhtun history and resistance.

    For further information, visit the Global Colloquium’s webpage at globalissues.truman.edu.
  • Environmental Committee Seeks Project Proposals

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    The Environmental Sustainability Fee Accountability Committee is currently seeking proposals for improving sustainability on Truman's campus. Any member of the Truman community can propose a project idea to the committee for consideration. In the past they have funded projects such as updated compost equipment, solar power for the University Farm and reusable water bottle fillers. Proposals can be completed using this form. The deadline for proposal submission is midnight Feb. 26. Contact Liam Connolly at wmc7667@truman.edu with any questions.
  • Homecoming Committee Applications Accepted Now

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    Click here to apply.
  • National TRIO Day Spotlights Truman Programs

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    McNair scholars Ashley Taylor, Albana Ismaili, Christina Carapia-Chaparro, Del Hannay, Quin Quintana and Kim Ramos

    Truman will celebrate its Upward Bound and McNair programs during National TRIO Day, Feb. 27.

    The Federal TRIO programs are designed to foster greater educational equity through their work with qualified students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education. This year for National TRIO Day, Truman’s programs will focus on sharing the impact they both have on and off campus. In McNair, they will concentrate on recruitment for the Pre-McNair Fellows program during the week of Feb. 22-26. Current McNair scholars will take over the programs Instagram to share what TRIO means to them and how to get involved. They will also discuss Pre-McNair and the history of TRIO on KTRM radio at 6 p.m. Feb. 24. Upward Bound will be doing a social media campaign to highlight National TRIO Day and join McNair during the radio show.

    The McNair program supports students from historically underrepresented groups who are interested in pursuing graduate education, especially doctoral degrees. The Pre-McNair Fellows program is open to any McNair-eligible freshmen or sophomores who want to get a sense of the services offered and do career and grad school exploration with one of the certified senior peer mentors. Interested students can find out if they are eligible and get more information about Pre-McNair by completing this form found on the program’s website.  

    Through Upward Bound, Truman students help high school students in six northeast Missouri counties prepare and apply for college. Even during the pandemic, they are able to take necessary precautions and conduct in-person meetings at area high schools. Teams of Truman students – both undergrads and MAE – travel to high schools each week to provide tutoring, mentoring, encouragement and assistance with college exploration and application.

    TRIO programs exemplify the mission and vision of Truman “to open opportunity, promote access and social mobility, foster excellence, recognize merit and do all things that urge our students to make themselves productive, free and equal.” Both programs must submit new funding proposals through a competitive federal grant application process every five years. Truman’s Upward Bound Project has been continuously funded since 1966 and McNair program has been continuously funded since 1992.
  • Final Tax Prep Session Set for Feb. 27

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    Beta Alpha Psi will host a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) session from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 27 in Violette Hall 1424.

    Clients who come to VITA should bring: social security cards for spouses and dependents; bank routing numbers and bank account numbers for direct deposit; wage and earnings statements such as W-2, 1098T and 1099; and a copy of last year’s federal and state tax returns if available. VITA services will be completed by IRS-certified volunteers and will also offer free electronic filing to receive a faster return.

    Due to COVID-19 restrictions, VITA services will only be offered to Truman students and staff. To prevent crowding and maintain social distancing, appointments are required. Walk-ins will be turned away.

    Call 660.785.6064 to schedule an appointment. For more information, visit bap.truman.edu/vita.
  • Now Hiring Student Ambassadors

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    Click here for more information about becoming an ambassador. The photo above was taken before the pandemic.
  • Guest Speaker to Discuss Love and Machines

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    Dr. Rocki Wentzel, associate professor of classics at Augustana University, will give a virtual talk entitled “Technological Divinity in Spike Jonze’s ‘Her’” at 6 p.m. March 2 via Zoom. Wentzel will incorporate themes and narratives from classical antiquity to provide a unique perspective on love and machines in a technological world. She will also combine the methodologies and content from the fields of classics and film studies. This event is free of charge and sponsored by Interdisciplinary Studies through the Classical Studies and Film Studies Minors.
  • Students Can Win $3,000 in Bulldog B.I.T.E.

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    Students with an affinity for business can submit their ideas for the sixth-annual Bulldog B.I.T.E. elevator pitch contest until March 5.

    An elevator pitch outlines the concept or idea for a product, service or project in a short period of time, typically from 30 seconds to three minutes. The length of the pitch mirrors the time spent waiting for and riding an elevator in a high-rise building. The purpose of the pitch is to spur the interest of a potential investor or financial backer.

    Bulldog B.I.T.E., which stands for Business Innovation by Truman Entrepreneurs, is open to any student or team of students — up to three members — enrolled during the 2021 spring semester. A student or team may submit only one pitch concept for the contest. Participants may pitch a for-profit or not-for-profit concept.

    Students will submit a concept or idea for a product, service or project in a video pitch no longer than two minutes by 10 p.m. March 5. The video should not include any props, except the product prototype, and should be one continuous shot. Students must also include an executive summary of their concept. The executive summary must contain: name of the individual or team members; problem or issue being addressed by the concept; product description; target market; competitive advantage of the concept; value creation; and expected future use of prize money.

    Judges will select six teams to virtually attend the live pitch competition from 4-6 p.m. April 9 to present their product to a panel. The top three finalists will receive cash awards: the cash prize for first place is $3,000; second place is $2,000; and third place is $1,000.

    The Bulldog B.I.T.E. is sponsored by Villhard Growth Partners and is coordinated on campus by the Office of Advancement.

    For complete details and entry information, visit bulldogbite.truman.edu.
  • Leadership Recognition Program Accepting Nominees

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    The nomination form for the 2021 Leadership Recognition Program is now open.

    This program is designed to honor Truman students, advisors and organizations for their dedication to their peers, campus and Kirksville community through various leadership roles during the year.

    Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to nominate exceptional student leaders, advisors, organizations and events on campus, particularly candidates whose achievements stood out after a year of constant adaptation to change.

    The access link to the nomination form and packet can be found online at involvement.truman.edu/lrp. Nomination forms are due by 11:59 p.m. March 7. The awards ceremony will take place April 13 in the Student Union Building Georgian Rooms. There will be more than 30 awards to distribute.

    Questions can be directed to Munkhjin Bat-Ireedui at csilrp@gmail.com. For more information visit involvement.truman.edu/lrp.
  • Student Research Conference Seeks Abstracts

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    The online submission site for the Student Research Conference is now open and abstracts can be submitted until 5 p.m. March 16.

    The 2021 Student Research Conference will take place April 22 as a hybrid event. Asynchronous virtual oral, poster, performance art and studio art presentations, as well as a limited number of face-to-face oral presentations, will be facilitated. This conference is a University-wide celebration of student research, scholarship and creative achievement. Both undergraduate and graduate students are invited to submit abstracts.

    Complete abstract guidelines can be found on the Office of Student Research website. All abstracts need to be sponsored by a Truman faculty or staff member. Students should work with their faculty mentor before submitting the abstract. For any questions about the Student Research Conference email osr@truman.edu.
  • Registration Open for ROTC 5K Warrior Dash

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    ROTC’s Warrior Dash 5K Run is open for registration. This year’s challenge will take place both in-person and virtually. For in-person the 5K will start 8 a.m. March 27. Masks will be required and age groups will be staggered at the beginning of the race to prevent grouping at the start and finish lines.

    For those who want to participate virtually, the 5K will need to be completed between March 20-27. Participants will receive the 2021 Warrior Dash T-shirt. Registration will be available on Truman’s ROTC Instagram and Facebook page. The cost per person is $30. There will also be day-of registration for a 1-mile walk/run at Stokes Stadium. For more information email Emma Fellows.
  • Master of Athletic Training Applications Due April 1

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    The Truman Master of Athletic Training program is currently accepting applications for the 2021 cohort that begins July 1.

    Students interested in health care can consider a career in athletic training, which encompasses injury evaluation, rehabilitation and treatment, as well as program administration. Athletic training works closely with medical professionals to provide overall care and treatment to a variety of physically active individuals.

    For more information contact Brandy Schneider or visit truman.edu/mat. Application deadline is April 1.

Notables

  • Speech and Debate Champions

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    The Truman delegation earned multiple honors during the Missouri Speech and Debate State Championships, Feb 12-13. Kevin Minch, associate provost, also received the Forensics Community Service Award for his service to the speech and debate community. For more information about the Truman Forensics Union contact Craig Hennigan, director of forensics, at chennigan@truman.edu

    NPDA Parli Debate
    Ella Schnake
    and Alicia Stout
    Novice Missouri State Champions

    Elijah Baum and Macy Cecil
    Open NPDA Semifinalists

    Ella Schnake
    Second Novice Speaker

    Alicia Stout
    First Novice Speaker

    Jackson Elder
    Sixth Open Speaker

    Cami Smith
    Fifth Open Speaker


    Lincoln-Douglas
    Elijah Baum

    Novice Finalist

    Elijah Baum
    Second Novice Speaker

    Cami Smith
    Open Quarterfinalist

    Alicia Stout
    Open Semifinalist

    Cami Smith
    Third Open Speaker


    Individual Events
    Audrey Baker

    First Place - Original Oratory
    She will now compete nationally at the Interstate Oratory Contest.

    Jackson Elder
    First Place and Missouri State Champion - Extemporaneous Speaking

    Megan Ford
    Top Novice and Fifth Place - Communication Analysis
    Sixth Place - After Dinner Speaking.

    Jillian Humke
    Fifth Place - After Dinner Speaking

    Maya Krump
    Third Place - After Dinner Speaking

    Ella Schnake
    First Place and Top Novice and Missouri State Champion in Impromptu Speaking, Poetry Interpretation, Prose Interpretation
    Fourth Place and Top Novice - Dramatic Interpretation

    Larissa Wratney
    Top Novice and Second Place - After Dinner Speaking
    Fourth Place - Prose

    Kayla Gerlt and Audrey Baker
    First Place and Missouri State Champions - Duo Interpretation

    Jillian Humke and Larissa Wratney
    Top Novices and Third Place - Duo Interpretation


    Team Awards
    First Place and Missouri State Champions - Debate Sweepstakes
    First Place - Overall “Quality Award” (An award given for points per entry.)
    Second Place - Individual Events Sweepstakes Points
    Second Place - Overall Sweepstakes Points
  • Michael Ashcraft

    Michael Ashcraft, professor of philosophy and religion, served as a judge of undergraduate research papers for the Albert Clark Award, sponsored by Theta Alpha Kappa, the National Honor Society for Religious Studies and Theology.
  • Antonio Scuderi

    Antonio Scuderi, professor of Italian, has been invited to serve as an external reviewer for the promotion and tenure of a faculty member in the Department of Foreign Languages at Kennesaw State University in Georgia.

COVID-19 Updates

  • Second Dose Clinic Rescheduled for Jan. 27 Vaccine Recipients

    The Adair County Health Department’s administration of the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccine has been rescheduled for Feb. 24, at The Crossing, 810 East Shepherd Ave., in Kirksville. The second dose is only for those who received their first dose Jan. 27, not for the general public.

    The clinic is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Vaccine recipients should arrive at The Crossing at the same time as their first dose was scheduled Jan. 27. There is no charge for the vaccine; however, Medicare beneficiaries are asked to bring their Medicare card with them to the clinic.

    Frigid winter weather forced the postponement of the second dose administration originally scheduled for Feb. 17.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine should be administered at least 21 days after the first dose. The CDC recommendations also state there is no maximum interval between the first and second dose.
  • Third Attempt for Regional Vaccine Event

    The regional COVID-19 vaccine event originally scheduled for Feb. 10, then Feb. 18 due to weather, has been rescheduled again for 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Feb. 25 at The Crossing, 810 E. Shepherd Ave., in Kirksville. The Adair County Health Department, local and regional health care and community partners, and the Missouri National Guard will be coordinating the mass vaccination and directing traffic.

    Those who registered for the Feb. 10 and/or Feb. 18 event should keep the same scheduled appointment time. Due to cancellations, there are some appointments still available, so registration has been reopened to fill them. Visit the Adair County Health Department website and click on the registration link on the homepage to register. Those who do not have internet service can call 660.730.6100 and 660.730.6200 to register.

    This regional event is primarily for adults age 65 and older and high-risk individuals including adults age 18 and older with cancer, chronic kidney disease, COPD, heart conditions, weakened immune system due to organ transplant, severe obesity (BMI >40), sickle cell disease, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, pregnant women or individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome. Any remaining long-term and residential care workers, hospital and health care workers, emergency workers, including first responders, ambulance, law enforcement, fire, corrections and juvenile corrections, emergency management and public works employees may also register. Anyone who does not fall into these groups is not eligible for the Feb. 25 vaccine.

    The Moderna vaccine will be administered Feb. 25. All participants should bring their signed consent form with them. Those forms are available on the Adair County Health Department’s website under the “Forms” tab or may be picked up at the Adair County Health Department’s clinic entrance. There is no charge for the COVID-19 vaccine, however, Medicare beneficiaries are asked to bring their Medicare card to the clinic.

    Masks are required and social distancing will be practiced to the extent possible. Anyone with a health condition that makes walking difficult should park in the blue handicap-designated spaces in front of The Crossing and wait for assistance. Participants will check in with their consent form and if applicable, their Medicare card, at the registration area, proceed to the vaccine area, then sit in a waiting area for 15 minutes where they will be monitored for any adverse reactions to the vaccine before being released to return to their vehicles.

    Those receiving the Moderna vaccine Feb. 25 should receive the second dose of the same vaccine March 25 at the same scheduled time.

    Vaccine availability by entities other than the health department will continue to expand as manufacturers produce more doses.
  • Know Your Pod, Limit Your Risk

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    Podding is a great way for people to experience social interaction during the pandemic, but there is more to it than “just hanging out with a few people.” Every person in a pod is connected to all of the other people members of their pod may come in contact with as well. When a reporter traced his own pod, he soon realized what he thought would be a small bubble of people quickly grew to include more than 100 contacts.

    Pods are helpful during the pandemic but they are not invincible. Members should continue to wear a mask, wash their hands and maintain social distance whenever possible. It is important to be thoughtful about who makes up a pod and how to maintain its integrity. The smaller the pod, the lower the risk of exposure and spread.
  • Make a COVID-Smart Plan for Break

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    During their weekly meeting, members of the Faculty Senate COVID-19 Working Group, Nancy Daley-Moore, Scott Alberts and Christine Harker, recently discussed cases on campus and in the community, as well as making a plan for spring break.

    Case numbers related to Truman decreased for the week of Feb. 16, and numbers in the county have also slowed, but the group warned this could potentially be an artificial decline if exposed individuals are not getting tested. Everyone should continue to wear a mask, wash their hands and maintain a social distance. They should also consider getting vaccinated when they have the opportunity.

    Students and employees are also encouraged to start making a plan for spring break the week of March 8. Anyone who chooses to travel during that time should consider getting a test prior to their departure and return, and they should plan for time to quarantine before and after their trip. Students returning home should work with their family for a plan while they are visiting, and faculty members might want to consider virtual options before and after break to allow for their students to quarantine until they know they do not pose a risk to others.

    A recording of their conversation can be found here.

Scholarship Opportunities

  • Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholarship

    The Missouri Scholarship and Loan Foundation will offer the Purdy Emerging Leaders Scholarship, named in honor of Allan Walker Purdy.

    Purdy was born in 1914 on a farm near Macon and was the first in his family to attend a four-year college. He worked in the University of Missouri’s College of Agriculture before becoming the campus’s first director of scholarships and student financial aid.

    The scholarship is designed to provide merit-based scholarships to emerging leaders who are outstanding students and have a need for additional resources for higher education. The scholarship amount can vary based on an applicant’s circumstances. The general range will be $1,000-$5,000 based on expected family contribution (EFC), unmet need and other factors.

    Applicants must be a Missouri resident, typically a 2.5 or higher cumulative GPA, a U.S. Citizen, and a sophomore, junior or senior attending a Missouri public four-year university or the State Technical College of Missouri. Deadline to apply is June 30, 2021. Applications should be submitted online through Scholarship Central at moslf.org. To access more information about this scholarship, click here, or contact the Financial Aid Office at 660.785.4130.