ST. LOUIS – Missouri governor, Michael L. Parson, visited Missouri Baptist University today as opening speaker of the 2018-2019 MBU Media Talk series. Governor Parson was interviewed by two students, Ross Munroe and Colin Bailley, both communications students and spoke on a variety of issues including the response to Table Rock, the importance of voting and the importance of the Christian faith.

Michael L. Parson was sworn in as Missouri’s 57th Governor on June 1, 2018 by Missouri Supreme Court Judge Mary R. Russell. He came into the role of governor with a longtime commitment to serving others with over 30 years of experience in public service.

Governor Parson previously served as the 47th Lieutenant Governor of Missouri. He was elected Lieutenant Governor on Nov. 8, 2016 after claiming victory in 110 of Missouri’s 114 counties and receiving the most votes of any Lieutenant Governor in Missouri history.

Governor Parson served the people of the 28th Senatorial District in the Missouri Senate from 2011-2017. He served in the Missouri House of Representatives from 2005-2011. Governor Parson also served as the Sheriff of Polk County from 1993- 2005. He also served six years in the U.S. Army.

Amanda Staggenborg, MBU assistant professor and undergraduate communications instructional coordinator of public relations and communications, is the coordinator of MBU Media Talk. The series launched six years ago to further inspire students to achieve their dreams by showcasing professionals at the top of their fields.

“The MBU Media Talk provides students with the opportunities to actively engage with a respected member of the communications field,” said Staggenborg. “We focus on all types of communications impacting social issues and strategic messaging. We are honored to have Governor Parson speak with our students about his background and experience in public service.”

Each guest is hand-picked to highlight the types of communications-related professions that are available in St. Louis. Previous guests include: long-time St. Louis Post-Dispatch columnist Bill McClellan; 5 On Your Side’s sports director, Frank Cusumano; Maggie Crane, communications director at BioSTL and previously the city of St. Louis with former Mayor Francis Slay; Bob Davidson, Mercy vice president of community relations – integrated marketing; and Christina Coleman, reporter and anchor for 5 On Your Side.