News

Ana Compain-Romero, Sarah Mitchell, Kui Xie

March 17, 2026

Leadership in family science

For Sarah Mitchell, the study of families has always been about understanding people and the relationships that shape their lives. Mitchell, a three-time graduate of the University of Missouri, is the recipient of the College of Education & Human Development’s Early Career Alumni Achievement Award, which recognizes alumni who are making a significant impact early in their professional careers.

Ana Compain-Romero, Brad Ekwerekwu, Kui Xie

March 15, 2026

From the field to the forefront of education

For Bradley Ekwerekwu, leadership has always been rooted in service. A three-time Mizzou graduate, Ekwerekwu is the recipient of the College of Education & Human Development’s Mid-Career Alumni Achievement Award, which recognizes alumni who have made significant contributions to their professions and communities.

a group of people posing with Truman the Tiger

March 12, 2026

HDFS students honored at 2026 Mizzou 18 and Mizzou ’39 awards

The Mizzou Alumni Association and the Alumni Association Student Board recently named recipients of the 2026 Mizzou 18 and Mizzou '39 awards, which recognize outstanding University of Missouri students. Two Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) students, Jarri Brooks and Jasmine M. Godwin, were honored at this year's awards ceremony.

people standing in a room

March 11, 2026

Graduate Student Research Symposium spotlights the future of discovery

Graduate students in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) are not waiting for the future of research to arrive. They are building it now.

site leader and students smile on playground

Feb. 26, 2026

Adventure Club extends learning beyond the classroom for Columbia and Mizzou

Before and after the school day begins, hundreds of Columbia Public School (CPS) students are starting and ending their days with learning, creativity and connection - all through Adventure Club. As part of the University of Missouri College of Education and Human Development, Adventure Club offers enrichment-based care for elementary-aged children in a safe, supportive environment. The program provides educational and recreational activities, from arts and crafts and music to dramatic play, group games and homework help.

A young girl sits at a desk in a dark room, focused on her laptop. She writes in a notebook while chatting with an AI tutor displayed on the screen.

Feb. 19, 2026

Mizzou researchers use AI to boost literacy

A $10 million federal grant expands efforts to close reading and writing gaps in rural Missouri classrooms. At the University of Missouri, researchers are using artificial intelligence to help teachers close childhood literacy gaps and empower elementary students who struggle with reading and writing, particularly in rural parts of Missouri.

two pink hearts on a white surface

Feb. 11, 2026

10 tips to keep the romance in relationships

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Kale Monk offers 10 tips on strengthening relationships. He notes that relationships have a big impact on our mental and physical health. A strong relationship means more than a harmonious household: Social connections can affect how long we live. Researchers found that the impact of social isolation is equal to or stronger than factors like smoking, lack of exercise, and pollution.

STAR Recognition Emma Williams and Brendan McLaughlin

Feb. 8, 2026

Getting started in undergraduate research through S.T.A.R.

At the University of Missouri, research is a key part of how undergraduates learn, ask questions and prepare for what comes next. Whether students are interested in teaching, counseling, leadership or community-based work, research helps them develop skills that matter in any career, from critical thinking and collaboration to communication and problem-solving.

Kimber Auerbach 2026 Olympics

Feb. 8, 2026

Mizzou alumnus supports USA Hockey at the Winter Olympics

Kimber Auerbach’s journey to the 2026 Winter Olympics shows how thoughtful leadership and quiet attention can make all the difference in high-pressure moments.

Amanda Montgomery Rwanda 2019

Feb. 8, 2026

Top five reasons to study abroad

Studying or teaching abroad is one of the most meaningful ways students can learn beyond the classroom. Whether you’re interested in education, human development, counseling, or community-based work, global experiences offer the chance to step into new cultures, challenge assumptions, and grow in ways that last long after you return home.