Vol. 26 No. 1 - August 23, 2021

The total of first-time freshmen, along with new graduate, transfer and international students, combine to give Truman a 10.4% increase in new students compared to last fall. Official census numbers for the student body will not be available until the fourth week of the semester. Current projections are based on the number of students registered for classes.

Incoming Truman students hail from 24 states and 24 different countries. In total, they represent 366 high schools, where nearly one in five earned a leadership or community service award, and approximately 40% will receive A+ scholarships from the University.

Without the opportunity for regular in-person high school visits and college fairs due to the pandemic, the Admission Office got creative and conducted a number of events virtually, including all University showcases.

“The pandemic has completely upended many norms in higher education. For recruitment, we have had to redesign how we communicate the student experience,” said Ryan Myzak, director of admission. “Rankings and statistics are indicators of quality, but students seek an experience that validates those metrics. With traditional platforms of communicating those – campus visits, large campus events and local outreach in high schools – curtailed or impossible, we have done our best to pivot with outreach in other ways, and we feel prepared for interruptions in the next cycle.”

Truman’s achievement during a challenging time is especially noteworthy considering how difficult recruitment in general has been throughout the Midwest in recent years. According to data from the Coordinating Board for Higher Education, from 2015-2020 every Missouri public four-year institution saw at least one year of negative enrollment growth, with most experiencing the trend for multiple years. In total, 10 of the 13 state universities have seen an overall decrease in enrollment during that time. Stagnant high school graduation numbers are the root of the issue. While the state experienced an increase of an additional 10,000 graduates in the 2009-10 academic year compared to the 2000-01 academic year, the number of high school graduates in Missouri remained fairly flat for the following decade. The same trend is true for the Midwest region overall. While more than 73,000 additional students graduated from Midwest high schools in the 2009-10 academic year compared to 2000-01, the total remained sluggish during the following 10 years. Projections for the state and the region show signs of drastic decreases for the next 15 years.

To offset demographic challenges, Truman has implemented a varied approach in terms of recruitment. The Division of Enrollment Management was expanded to become Enrollment Management and Marketing, with proactive recruitment measures conducted in collaboration with the Admission Office. Along with a new director of admission, the University added a coordinator of marketing position, as well as a director of retention to support students even after they are enrolled.

For the coming year, Truman will continue to pilot its test-optional admission policy. The College Board and the ACT report test-taking declines of more than 60%, and continuing the pilot program is necessary for Truman to be a competitive option for applicants. Most of the highly selective liberal arts colleges have pioneered a holistic, test-optional admission process for more than a decade.

“Truman has always used a holistic review for applications,” Myzak said. “By including a test-optional path to admission, Truman is meeting many students where they are. The review process still evaluates prospective students for academic preparedness, while at the same time allowing those who cannot or chose not to take traditional standardized tests an avenue to gain admission based on other strengths.”

Another positive sign for future recruitment efforts came this year in the form of summer academy enrollment. Truman hosted students for the Joseph Baldwin Academy (JBA), JBA Jr. and the ATSU-Truman Healthcare Academy. Last year, JBA transitioned to an online format, and the other summer academies were suspended altogether. This year, all three programs saw participation levels at or exceeding pre-pandemic numbers. As JBA is an effective feeder program for eventual Truman students, the increase in enrollment shows promise for future entering classes.

Truman also increased its focus on graduate and transfer students, primarily through online marketing. Increases in both areas are a good sign as piloted aspects of those recruitment strategies are incorporated to include undergraduate students in the coming year. Since the University’s recent graduating classes were quite large, total headcount for the current year is down, however, Truman is prepared for long-term growth by increasing the freshmen, transfer, international and graduate student populations.

“We have the best product in the state when it comes to higher education,” said Tyana Lange, vice president for enrollment management and marketing. “In every measurable way, we see that a Truman education is second to none, whether it is graduation rates, alumni career satisfaction, affordability, faculty engagement or any other mark of success. Now that we have developed a new, sustainable infrastructure of recruitment, and are getting it in place, we can position Truman to be successful in spite of any challenges we might face.”

Applications for the 2022-23 school year are already open and can be found at truman.edu/admission-cost/apply-to-truman. Anyone who would like refer a prospective student to Truman can do so at truman.edu/alumni-donors/refer-a-student.

The University will receive $500,000 through the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) fund to support and expand the current nursing program. A project of Missouri’s Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, GEER funds were created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They are designed to provide educational opportunities for students, drive progress toward economic recovery and meet specific workforce needs.

“We receive more student applicants for nursing than we have capacity to enroll, so this addresses some of the issues preventing increased admission,” said Brenda Wheeler, Nursing Department chair and associate professor of nursing. “Also, the nursing profession continues to have high demand in the job market.”

Impacts from GEER will be seen as soon as this fall with the addition of two temporary nursing faculty members. A tenure-track position may be advertised in the near future as well. New faculty members will enable the department to restructure its clinical offering, allowing for more students to participate. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students and Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) students will have classes on opposite days, with clinical offerings taking place on the alternate days.

“We anticipate that we can increase our student enrollment by using a varied clinical schedule. While this will allow for increased use of our clinical sites, the redesign will require additional faculty,” Wheeler said. “The first cohort in the redesigned ABSN program will begin in summer 2022.”
 
While the nursing program typically enrolls about 220 students, it should be able to accommodate an additional 20 students per year once the new structure is fully in place. The ABSN program is 15 months in length, so once the program gets started, there will be an overlap of students beginning and completing the program each summer.
    
Another key benefit of the GEER funding will be the addition of cutting-edge technology. Among the new equipment the University is in the process of purchasing is a high-tech geriatric nursing simulator.

“We do not currently have a geriatric simulator with the capabilities that this new simulator will provide,” Wheeler said. “The simulator will provide the opportunity for a much more realistic clinical exposure to the geriatric clientele.”  

Other equipment slated to be purchased with GEER funding includes three point-of-care computer medication carts, which will enable students to simulate safe medication administration at the bedside. Additionally, bedside workstations on wheels with new laptop computers will allow students some opportunities for patient bedside charting.

Capital renovations were also included as part of Truman’s grant. Portions of the Pershing Building will be converted into learning spaces for nursing, allowing the program to accommodate more students.

Truman was able to secure some of the competitively awarded GEER funds thanks to the collaboration of the School of Health Sciences and Education, the Nursing Department, the Business Office and the Provost’s Office.

Rave Guardian is a reliable communication and emergency app. Students can receive timely campus notifications and updates. Its every day, non-emergency uses include contact information for frequently used offices such as Financial Aid, the Student Health Center, the University Counseling Center and the Recreation Center.

In emergency situations, Rave Guardian provides immediate and on-demand panic buttons, two-way texting, anonymous tip reporting of suspicious behavior and a unique “virtual walk” escort that utilizes GPS tracking.  

More information about Rave Guardian can be found on the Department of Public Safety website, and the app is available at the App Store and Google Play Store.

The other useful app for students is a component of Truman’s participation in the My Student Support Program (MySSP). The program is a partnership with emotional well-being provider Morneau Shepell, which provides 24/7 access to resources specifically for students in higher education. In addition to the program’s award-winning app, students can seek resources in a variety of platforms, including live online chats and video counseling. The My SSP app also offers self-directed resources, including videos and articles on topics such as scholarly stress, combating homesickness and thriving as a student. Self-assessments are also available online, and content is regularly updated according to the time of year.  

Students can access My SSP at myssp.app or by using the My SSP app, available at the App Store or Google Play Store.

Students with financial needs that may interfere with their ability to continue their education can seek assistance through the Truman State University Foundation Loan Program.

Foundation loans can come in the form of short-term loans, long-term loans, access loans and cultural loans. Applications go through the Financial Aid Office and are repaid directly to the University. Banks and outside lenders are not involved in the process.

To be eligible for a Foundation loan students must be enrolled on a full-time basis and be in good academic standing. Students also need to demonstrate an ability to repay the loan in a timely manner. Deferments of up to five years are available for cultural and long-term loans, provided the student is enrolled on a full-time basis.

In addition to scholarship assistance, the loan program is an example of the immediate impact of donations to the Truman State University Foundation. Gifts from alumni and friends allow Truman to provide assistance directly to students as they pursue their education.

For more information on the Foundation loan program, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@truman.edu, at 660.785.4130 or in person at McClain Hall 103.

The Faculty Senate COVID-19 Working Group committee will again provide updates and analysis of cases and best practices as they relate to the campus community.

In their first video back, released Aug. 17, committee members Scott Alberts, Nancy Daley-Moore and Christine Harker discussed the coming school year. Masks will be required indoors, and the group encouraged everyone to take multiple steps to limit exposure to and spread of the virus on campus, including hand washing, meeting outdoors whenever possible and getting vaccinated.

The University will conduct vaccine clinics on campus at a time and date to be determined. Vaccines are also available at local pharmacies. COVID-19 tests will again be available at the Student Health Center as well as at local pharmacies.

Truman will continue to post relevant information about COVID-19 online at truman.edu/coronavirus, and the University dashboard available at truman.edu/coronavirus/reporting will resume posting information Aug. 24.

Over the next six weeks, updates on the platform, and everything users will need to get started on the new system, will become available. Sign up here to find out more about the new portal rollout. More information will be provided in TruView and posted in the Truman Today.

First Day of Class Snacks
Starting at 11 a.m. in SUB HUB until supplies run out.

Lemonade Stand Pub Stunt (SAB event)
12-2:30 p.m. on the quad while supplies last.

President has Dinner in Ryle Dining Hall
5:30-6:30 p.m.

President Visits Ryle Hall
6:30-7:30 p.m.

Full House Meet Up
See residence hall posters for more info.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Aug. 31.

Aug. 24
Spike at Starbucks
8:30-9 a.m.

President has Lunch in Centennial Hall
12-1 p.m.

Full House Meet Up
See residence hall posters for more info.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Aug. 31.

Aug. 25
Student Recreation Center’s 25th Birthday
Snacks will be available in main lobby at 11 a.m. until supplies run out.

Pop-Up Event on the Quad (Rain Location TBD)
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Full House Meet Up
See residence hall posters for more info.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Aug. 31.

Aug. 26
Pictures with Spike
12:30-1:30 p.m. Location to be determined.

President Visits Missouri Hall
6-6:45 p.m.

President Visits Centennial Hall
7-7:45 p.m.

Full House Meet Up
See residence hall posters for more info.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.
 
Getting to Know You!
Student advisor will be meeting with each resident.

Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Aug. 31.

Aug. 27
Back-to-School Bash (SAB Event)
11 a.m.-3 p.m. on the quad with Student Recreation Center as rain location.

Welcome Back Comedian (SAB Event)
4:30-6 p.m. on the quad.

Truman Steel – Summer Concert on the Square
7 p.m. downtown Kirksville.

Full House Meet Up
See residence hall posters for more info.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Aug. 31.

Last Day to Change Fall 2021 Meal Plan

Aug. 28
Fraternity and Sorority Life Ice Cream Social
2-4 p.m. on the quad with Student Union Building as rain location. Interest event where students can meet the chapters and learn more about recruitment/intake.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Aug. 31.

Aug. 29
Intramural 3v3 Basketball starts
Student Recreation Center.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.
 
Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Aug. 31.

Aug. 30
President Visits Campbell Apartments
6-7 p.m.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card. Ends Aug. 31.

Aug. 31
Activities Fair - Theme: Find Your Bunch
6-8 p.m. Student Union Building.

Bicycle Sale
8:30 a.m. at Military Storage Bldg. on Florence St.

Opening Reception for Art Gallery
5 p.m. in Ophelia Parrish 1114 art gallery.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Last day for Bonus Bucks
20% bonus for every $100 deposited on a dining card.

Sept. 1
Activities Fair - Theme: Find Your Bunch
6-8 p.m. Student Union Building.

President Visits West Campus Suites
6-7 p.m.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

President Visits Dobson Hall
6-6:45 p.m.

President Visits BNB
7-7:45 p.m.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Roommate Agreements
Due by Sept. 3.

Sept. 3
Glow-in-the-dark Canvas Painting No. 1 (SAB Event)
8 p.m. on quad.

Getting to Know You!
Student advisors will be meeting with each resident.

Last day for Roommate Agreements

Aug. 23
6-8 p.m.
Adair House

Aug. 24
4-5 p.m.
Adair House

Aug. 26
5-6 p.m.
Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/93143930235

Aug. 30
8-9 a.m.
Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/93143930235

Sept. 1
4-5 p.m.

For more information visit mcnair.truman.edu or follow the program on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Union & Involvement will host the Activities Fair from 5-8 p.m. Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 in the Student Union Building.

This event is an excellent opportunity for students to find organizations to join on campus. Several organizations will be showcased each night.

For more information contact Union & Involvement Services in the Student Union Building 2000 at 660.785.4222 or by email at orgs@truman.edu.

Proceeds from the bike sale will benefit the Bike Co-op.

 
Complete guidelines can be found at the Office of Student Research website. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Sept. 3. Questions can be emailed to osr@truman.edu.

Truman Publications can also assist in the creation of posters or fliers to help promote campus events.

Truman Today submission form can be found here.

Publications request for a work order can be found here. For all other questions email pr@truman.edu.

• Log in to TruView
• Scroll down to View & Update My Personal Information
• Click Register My Vehicle/Bicycle
• Verify the local Kirksville address and phone information.
• Complete the vehicle registration – license plate information is REQUIRED

Parking Services will process the parking decal request. Student accounts will be charged $130 for a resident pass or $50 for a park-and-save pass. Decals may be picked up two business days after online registration. A Truman ID is required to pick up a decal. Registration is not complete until the decal is adhered to the vehicle.

 
Listed below are several of the major national fellowships and their websites. More information about these fellowships is available at www.truman.edu/majors-programs/more-learning-opportunities/fellowships.

For Graduate Studies
Fulbright Grants
Research grants and teaching assistantships for a year abroad

Rhodes Scholarships
Grants for two years of study at Oxford University

Marshall Scholarships
Awards for two years of study in any British university

Mitchell Scholarships
One year of graduate study or research in Ireland or Northern Ireland

Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Awards for an advanced degree or second bachelor’s degree at the University of Cambridge
 
For Undergraduate Studies
Goldwater Scholarships
Up to $7,500 annually for tuition, fees, books, room and board for science and mathematics majors

Harry S. Truman Scholarships
For senior year and post-graduate study leading to a career in public service

Udall Scholarships
For students interested in careers related to environmental issues or for Native Americans and Alaskans interested in careers related to health care and tribal public policy

Carnegie Endowment Junior Fellowships
For students interested in international affairs to work as research assistants to the Endowment’s senior associates in Washington, D.C. for a full year

Boren Scholarships
To study abroad in areas of the world that are critical to U.S. interests