Human Development & Family Science News

A child life specialist smiles at a patient

Oct. 6, 2026

Mizzou alum recognized nationally for helping hospitalized children find their voice 

After nearly 28 years in the child life profession, Rossi’s approach to caring for children and families has earned national recognition. She was recently named the 2026 recipient of the Mary Barkey Clinical Excellence Award from the Association of Child Life Professionals, which recognizes a child life specialist who demonstrates exemplary care and a high level of clinical skill.
Miranda Clines reads with students at the Child Development Lab

Sep. 13, 2026

MU Child Development Lab earns national recognition 
Jesse Hall

Aug. 18, 2026

2026 Faculty Promotions

Recent News

2026-07 Eunjin Tracy

July 27, 2026

Mizzou researchers find simple habit to improve physical, mental health

University of Missouri researchers have identified a simple, effective way to improve quality of life. A new study found that maintaining a consistent daily routine can reduce physical pain and ease symptoms of depression, demonstrating how everyday habits can have a meaningful impact on well-being, particularly for older adults with insomnia.
Jesse Hall during summer

July 21, 2026

From Missouri to the world: CEHD honors faculty advancing research, teaching and human impact 

Effective July 1, three faculty members have been named to endowed faculty appointments, recognizing sustained excellence in research, teaching and leadership. In addition, six early-career researchers have been selected to receive the 2026-27 Nentwig Faculty Excellence Awards, honoring faculty whose innovative scholarship is shaping the future of education, health and human development.
Summer Welcome Leaders Gracie Cortez, Jacob Woods, Kynnedi Miller-Colbert

July 7, 2026

Summer Welcome Leaders rally the next generation of Tigers  

Student leaders from the College of Education & Human Development are helping welcome hundreds of incoming Tigers this summer, creating meaningful connections while developing the leadership, communication and relationship-building skills that will serve them in future careers as educators and human services professionals.
Undergraduate Commencement ceremony, students

May 17, 2026

Mizzou Made: Honoring May 2026 graduates

A total of 485 students from the University of Missouri College of Education & Human Development were recognized during May commencement ceremonies, celebrating graduates prepared to serve, lead and make an impact in communities across Missouri and beyond.
Ella Morrissey

May 12, 2026

From heart transplant to trained child life specialist, student finds her beat at Mizzou

Ella Morrissey arrived at the University of Missouri determined to make up for lost time. After a heart transplant her senior year of high school, she was ready to say yes to the opportunities and everyday moments she missed growing up with heart disease.
#17 public graduate education programs, #14 special education programs

April 7, 2026

College of Education & Human Development rises in U.S. News graduate education rankings

The University of Missouri College of Education & Human Development is ranked among the nation’s top graduate education programs, according to the 2026 Best Graduate Schools rankings released by U.S. News & World Report.
Old wooden one vintage chair in a room with red grunge walls and floor in sunlight, dark shadows. Shabby antique furniture. Empty copy space, no people. Retro interior still life, concept.

March 31, 2026

Feeling lonely? Mizzou researchers are building new ways to help people reconnect

Through the ShowMe Connection project, rural Missouri residents can learn practical strategies to build stronger, healthier social networks.