MBU Trustees receive positive enrollment report, approve new academic programs
The Missouri Baptist University Board of Trustees received record-breaking spring enrollment news and approved several new academic programs and a key faculty appointment at its regularly scheduled meeting May 28.
Board members received news that Spring 2009 enrollment surpassed fall 2008 enrollment by 112 students university-wide, increasing the University’s overall student population from 4,614 to 4,726 students.
Contributing to such growth is the University’s sustained expansion at the graduate level and an increased retention rate. The University saw a seven percent increase in the number of undergraduate students at the MBU main campus compared to last spring, the Trustees learned.
In other business:
- The Board approved recommendations to begin offering new academic programs including a minor in Journalism, a revamped major in Christian Ministry, which will realign existing religion and religious education majors, a major in Biochemistry and a graduate certification in Exercise Science.
- The new journalism minor will complement the existing majors in broadcast media and public relations as well as the English major with writing concentration. Developments in modern biological sciences that rely extensively on techniques and principles of chemistry and physics prompted the University’s Natural Sciences Division to propose the new biochemistry major. That program will prepare students for advanced study in biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, molecular biology, molecular genetics, structural biology, genetic engineering and cell biology. The certification in Exercise Science will complement the MS in Sport Management, providing students an interest in the fitness industry with opportunity to strengthen their knowledge base in exercise science.
- The Board approved the appointment of Cindy Vitale as professor of education. Vitale most recently has worked at Lindenwood University as an Associate Dean of the School of Education. For nearly 30 years, Vitale worked as a public educator in various capacities including principal, assistant principal and teacher. Vitale will work, in part, to ensure the success of the University’s first terminal degree, the new Doctor of Education program.
- Trustees approved resolutions of appreciation for benefactors who have donated to the University during the last quarter. In addition, three donors were specifically recognized for their generosity to the University. A resolution was approved for Mrs. Lois Waltrop, a longtime MBU benefactor. Nashville Baptist Church in Ashland, Mo., a dedicated supporter of the University, was recognized for its 175th anniversary. Trustees also approved a resolution for Imagine Schools for its generous contribution to the Campaign for Missouri Baptist University.
