August 19, 2024 - Welcome to the 2024-25 Academic Year at UMSL!
Dear UMSL Community,
It’s always inspiring to see our campus come back to life each fall as we welcome both new and returning students into our community. In the days and weeks ahead, we will all share in the pride of striving to transform our own lives—and the lives of others—through our collective pursuits.
The start of a new academic year is a moment to not only focus on the important work we’re doing now but also to lean into the bright future that lies ahead. This academic year, our university is in the midst of a $110 million physical transformation, an ambitious project aimed at creating a campus that is centered on the core needs of our students now and into the future. What may appear as organized chaos is also a sign of progress, a testament to our commitment to a future where UMSL is stronger and more vibrant than ever before.
But transformation isn’t just about our physical surroundings; it’s also about personal growth. I encourage each of you—students, faculty, and staff—to reflect on your own aspirations and consider how you can shape your future. At UMSL, we believe that “More Is What Moves Us,” and I challenge you to think about what “more” means to you. Whether it’s earning your degree, gaining hands-on experience, finding a trusted mentor, building your network, advancing your career, or tackling the world’s greatest challenges through research, your “more” is what drives us forward.
Remember, this attitude of striving for more extends beyond yourself. It’s about being more to those around you—getting involved, sharing your experiences, and contributing to the community that makes UMSL so special.
Let’s embrace this academic year as an opportunity to grow, to transform, and to achieve more than we ever thought possible.
Gratefully forward,
Kristin Sobolik
Chancellor, University of Missouri–St. Louis
