News

Matt Villasana with a group of students in the media center

Nov. 5, 2026

Innovation, creativity and empowerment: Matt Villasana’s spark for a lifelong love of learning

Matt Villasana creates innovative learning experiences that inspire students to read, lead and take ownership of their learning. Through student-led initiatives, creative programming and a commitment to empowerment, he has helped foster a culture of curiosity, confidence and lifelong learning.
Rita Cortés on a construction site

Nov. 5, 2026

Leading together: Rita Cortés and the power of school board governance
Miranda Clines reading to children

Nov. 5, 2026

Where every voice matters: Miranda Clines and the Child Development Lab

Recent News

Brian Breeden in a classroom talking to students

Nov. 5, 2026

Community at the core: Dr. Brian Breeden’s approach to leadership

Through a leadership approach grounded in relationships, trust and collaboration, Brian Breeden has helped strengthen both the Clever R-V School District and the broader community it serves. From improving district culture and staff retention to leading successful community initiatives, Breeden demonstrates the power of people-centered leadership.
two people smiling at each other

Nov. 4, 2026

Strengthening Missouri families through kinship care 

A competitive federal grant will help ParentLink at the University of Missouri expand and evaluate a statewide program supporting relatives and other trusted adults raising children during family crises.
two people shaking hands

Nov. 3, 2026

Helping Missouri’s youth see a future full of possibility 

Through a partnership between the College of Education & Human Development and MU Extension, Mizzou faculty are helping young people build the confidence, connections and skills to pursue college and career opportunities.
Laura McHugh

Nov. 3, 2026

Mizzou alumna Laura McHugh knows how to program a mystery

Award-winning suspense novelist, Laura McHugh, discovered an unexpected talent at Mizzou before pursuing her lifelong dream of writing.
two people holding a cane

Nov. 1, 2026

Mizzou researchers seek better ways to support families affected by dementia

Three NIH-supported projects explore how sleep, caregiving responsibilities and family relationships affect the health of older adults and those caring for loved ones with dementia.
the ELPA department poses with three influential people from Cleve McDaniel's life

Oct. 29, 2026

$1 Million Gift Honors Olin Cleve McDaniel and Supports Aspiring Higher Education Leaders 

A $1 million gift from the estate of O. Cleve McDaniel, Ph.D. ’97, will support professional development opportunities for graduate students in Mizzou’s Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis program, carrying forward the legacy of a higher education leader committed to serving others.
Andrew Lootens-White at a podium

Oct. 20, 2026

Connecting the dots: How Mizzou mentors shaped Andrew Lootens-White’s journey 

From a small Northwest Missouri town to a national higher education leadership role, CEHD alumnus Andrew Lootens-White credits the people who helped him see possibilities he hadn’t imagined — and now hopes to do the same for others.