Homecoming

Autumn Collins
Hometown: West Plains, Missouri
Major: General Studies
Sponsored by: Student Government Association

I am proud to be a Grizzly because of the community being one encourages. On campus there a professors who are devoted to your success more than you think. Students who are supportive. The faculty and staff put a lot of work into to making campus a good environment. My most rewarding experience on campus was being able to job shadow a professor, Dr. Howerton, my freshman year. It was very educating and interesting to learn how he balanced work as a professor, an author, and a publisher. I had not had him in class before, but he was willing to let me learn from him and that experience had stuck with me. Thank your Dr. Howerton!

Jayanna Draper
Hometown: Lynchburg, Missouri
Major: Health Professions
Sponsored by: Christian Campus House

I am proud to be a Grizzly on behalf of what our school stands for, that is inclusiveness. As a university strives for inclusiveness it reminds me of how Jesus loves all people, as we should. My most rewarding experience regarding MSU West Plains is making the Chancellors List my first semester as a freshman. This accomplishment brought me realization that I am capable of completing my heart’s desires.

 

Kennedy Eckley
Hometown: Vienna, Missouri
Major: Nursing
Sponsored by: Student Ambassadors

Missouri State University-West Plains has given me opportunities that I did not know were possible in college. I am a student ambassador, a writing tutor, a resident assistant, an active participant in student nursing association, and a member of Alpha Delta Nu. All of these opportunities have helped me grow as an individual. Not only that, but these organizations have shaped my career academically, shown me valuable leadership skills, and help me make valuable connections that will last a lifetime.

Aubrey Hull
Hometown: Bloomfield, Missouri
Major: Health Professions
Sponsored by: Grizzly Cheer Team

I am involved in Grizzly Cheer, the Student Ambassador program, and I work for the Advancement Office for the Corps of Opportunity! Being a part of these organizations has led me to countless opportunities and friends that I would have never met. In every way I am learning new things and getting out of my comfort zone in the MSU- West Plains campus.

 

Rylee Rather
Hometown: Mountain Home, Arkansas
Major: Human Services
Sponsored by: ASCEND

I am proud to be a Grizzly because MSU-WP truly cares about their students. The staff here makes sure that every student has a chance to achieve their highest potential in college. When it came to choosing a college I could have easily picked something closer, but I saw how much MSU-WP cared for every student they had and I wanted to be a part of that. My most rewarding campus experience was going to the Halloween party on campus and having an amazing time. It is difficult for me to socialize, especially with new people, but I found the confidence to start new conversations and learn more about others.

Heath Johnson
Hometown: West Plains, Missouri
Major: Business
Sponsored by: Student Ambassadors

Serving as Vice President of the SGA has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to advocate for my peers, put on amazing events for students, and contribute to positive change on campus. It is a privilege to be part of a community that encourages growth, leadership, and collaboration.

Walker Loveland
Hometown: Sparta, Missouri
Major: Business
Sponsored by: Grizzly Basketball Team

I’m proud to be a Grizzly mostly because I am the first of my family to play a college sport and it’s been an awesome opportunity. My most rewarding experience was signing autographs at the Boys Basketball Scrimmage. My reasoning for that is it felt like an awesome reward for all the hard work I have put into both basketball and school.

Seth Roush
Hometown: West Plains, Missouri
Major: General Studies
Sponsored by: ASCEND

Potentially being Homecoming King is a really big deal as I get to make my family and the ASCEND program proud. People have told me I am a great example of an MSU Grizzly.

Ryan Steinbrink
Hometown: Plato, Missouri
Major: Technology
Sponsored by: Christian Campus House

I am proud to be a Grizzly and my most rewarding experience is being on the baseball team. The feeling and the brotherhood is unmatched.

Mo Totty
Hometown: West Plains, Missouri
Major: General Studies
Sponsored by: Student Government Association

I have participated in the SGA for two years allowing me great leadership experience but also opportunities to make changes in small and big ways around campus. Being involved helped me grow and develop and even gain some confidence in decision making or planning. I’m also a part of the music program for the college which has been eye opening for what it takes to start a program.