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Crowder Students Record Multiple Top 10 Place Finishes at FBLA Nationals

  • June 10, 2026

    For Immediate Release
    Office of Public Information
    Crowder College

    RE: Crowder Students Record Multiple Top 10 Place Finishes at FBLA Nationals

    Las Vegas, NV—Seven students from Crowder Collegewon top prizes at Future Business Leaders of America, Inc’s (FBLA) National Leadership Conference (NLC). The event, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from June 6 to June 8, attracted college students, educators, and volunteers from across the country. The NLC provides education, competition, and networking opportunities centered on business.

    Seth Russell (Neosho) set a Crowder record winning 1st place in two competitions: Foundations of Economics & Impromptu Speaking.

    Cheyenne Baker Oxford (Neosho) placed 3rd in Organizational Behavior & Leadership

    Arden Roller (Neosho) placed 10th in Foundations of Management

    Chloe Graber (Sarcoxie), Natalie Sarratt (Neosho), & Gauge Spier (Neosho) placed 2nd in Hospitality Management Case Competition.

    Bridget Andon (Neosho), Sarratt, and Spier placed 7th in Management Case Competition.

    “To have six top 10 finishes from seven students is an achievement in itself,” shared Dr. Scott Donaldson, FBLA sponsor and Crowder Business Instructor.   “In my three years at Crowder, this was one of our best performances at Nationals. We have two National Championships and multiple top ten finishes. Additionally, ten of our students received Business Communication Official Certification during a training event taught by Southwest Airlines personnel.”

    More than 1,300 attendees from nearly 200 colleges and universities in 29 U.S. states and territories competed in 42 business-related events for scholarships and cash prizes totaling nearly $60,000. Students also had the opportunity to engage in 60 learning workshops and meet with representatives from more than 20 colleges, universities, and employers, including Alzheimer’s Association, BusinessU, CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP), FICO, Funds2Orgs, Kendra Scott, Men’s Wearhouse, the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and U.S. Coast Guard.

    Additionally, student members heard from Jared Ebersole, FBLA high school alumnus and co-founder of Lectec, who shared his journey from FBLA member to Shark Tank entrepreneur, and what it takes to build, fail, and lead.

    Crowder College FBLA is under the advisement of Business Instructors: Dr. Scott Donaldson, Dr. Gregory Murdock, and Mr. Jacob Barnes. Students may become a part of FBLA while attending Crowder College. The organization provides activities that are beneficial in many careers. Information is available when enrolling in classes.

    “This year’s National Leadership Conference showcased the incredible talent and dedication of our student members,” said FBLA President & CEO Jennifer Woods. “From analytical thinking to dynamic communication, they demonstrated the skills that will shape tomorrow’s workforce. These college students leave Las Vegas not only with well-earned recognition, but also with new connections, confidence, and a clearer path toward their future careers.”

    Future Business Leaders of America, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) education association with more than 230,000 members in middle school, high school, and college worldwide. FBLA inspires and prepares students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences. The association is headquartered in Reston, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C. For more information, visit fbla.org

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    Attached please find photos of the 10 student participants and advisors who attended the National Conference.

    Winner photo (L-R): Arden Roller, Cheyenne Baker Oxford, Natalie Sarratt, Seth Russell, Chloe Graber, Bridget Andon. Missing from photo was Gauge Spier
  • June 9, 2026 

    For Immediate Release 
    Office of Public Information 
    Crowder College 

    RE: Crowder has two students place at National SkillsUSA competition 

    Atlanta, GA – Crowder College SkillsUSA students brought home two national bronze medalists from the convention last week in Atlanta, Georgia. 

    Helen Mawi, a CTEC Health Science II student and East Newton High School graduate earned a Bronze Medal in Basic Health Care Skills; Christian Conrad earned a bronze medal in Diesel Mobile Electronics. Conrad is a Diesel Technology major from Neosho. 

    “Competing against some of the most talented students from across the nation, Helen demonstrated exceptional healthcare knowledge, technical skill, professionalism, and composure under pressure to secure a place on the national podium, stated Dana Cobb, Director of Secondary CTE. “This achievement is a testament to Helen’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence throughout her time at CTEC. We are incredibly proud of the way she represented her program, East Newton High School, and our entire CTEC community on the national stage.” 

    “Qualifying for nationals is an accomplishment, but finishing as a medal winner competing against students from across the country is huge!” stated Melissa Smith, Director of Joplin Advanced Training & Workforce Center. “Christian’s performance confirms the education he received in the Diesel program and his desire to achieve paid off.”  

    Crowder College offers secondary/high school programs through partnerships with area school districts of: Neosho, East Newton, Diamond, Seneca, and McDonald County. Students to attend during their junior and senior years creating pathways into careers while earning high school credit and potentially college credits through dual enrollment. 

    Crowder College provide post-secondary training in Diesel Technology along with programs in Advanced Manufacturing, Welding, Computer Network & Support, Engineering Technology, Agriculture. Surgical Technology, EMT/Paramedic, Allied Health, and Automotive Technology. Most programs provide pathways through stackable certificates allowing entry level employment with an opportunity to continue their education. 

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    Christian Conrad (right)
    Helen Mawi

  • 2026 Vet Tech student graduates and instructors

    For Immediate Release
    Crowder College
    Public Information Office

    RE: Vet Tech graduates hit 100% pass rate on VTNE

    Neosho, MO – Crowder College Agriculture program is excited to announce its 2026 graduating class scored 100% pass rate on the Veterinary Technician National Exam. Successful completion allows the graduate to work with a licensed DVM in a companion animal, exotic, equine, and food animal practices, performing medical nursing and technical procedures.

    “A 100% VTNE pass rate is an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to the hard work of our students and faculty,” stated Shawna Estep, Agriculture Division Chair/Vet Tech Instructor. “We are proud to see our graduates achieve this important credential and enter the veterinary profession ready to make an immediate impact in animal health care. This is a significant improvement in our VTNE pass rate and a direct reflection of the hard work, sacrifice and dedication that students and faculty prioritized.  We are very proud of our Vet Tech program at Crowder College.”

    Crowder College has several agriculture degrees that provide pathways into the workforce or transfer to a four-year university. The labs as well as the over 300-acre farm provide hands-on opportunities for students to get a well-rounded experience. For more information about the Veterinary Technology program visit: https://www.crowder.edu/program/agriculture/veterinary-technology/

  • June 1, 2026

    For Immediate Release
    Office of Public Information
    Crowder College

    RE: Crowder College announces Spring 2026 Dean’s List honor

    Neosho, MO – Crowder College had nearly 600 students receive Dean’s list honor in the Spring 2026 semester. To earn this honor, a full-time student taking 12 or more credit hours must earn a 3.5 grade point average or higher on college level courses.

    The following is a list of students sorted by hometown and state:

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  • May 20, 2026

    For Immediate Release
    Office of Public Information

    Crowder College

    RE: Tatum legacy lives on at McDonald County location

    Jane, MO – The legacy of James B. Tatum continues to thrive as his son, James P. Tatum, recently donated funds for a facility remodel and leadership training for McDonald County Leadership.

    Tatum learned from a young age the value of servant leadership and investing in your community as his father set the example over many years ago. Now, Mr. Tatum’s legacy lives on as James P. provided funding to repurpose an area inside Tatum Hall, to office space in honor of his late mother, Kathryn G. Tatum Administrative Suite. The area provides office space for Crowder College’s thriving Practical Nursing program and student advisement.

    In addition to the physical space, funds were used to provide a faculty member participation in the inaugural McDonald County Chamber of Commerce Leadership program.

    “Growing up in McDonald County and attending Crowder College, I was inspired by the spirit and dedication to serve of that generation’s local leaders,” stated James P. Tatum. “I am grateful that the McDonald County Chamber of Commerce created Leadership McDonald County to help lay the foundation for future leaders. Marla and I are thankful that we can assist Crowder College students in becoming part of the next generation of leaders.”

    James P. Tatum is one of four children to James B. and Kathryn G. Tatum. James P. and his wife Marla have continued support of the college.

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  • Diane Andris, who served on the Board of Trustees of Crowder College for 30 years, is
    retiring from the Board of Trustees effective June 1, 2026. As such, there is now a vacancy on the
    Crowder College Board of Trustees.

    To be eligible to serve on the Crowder College Board of Trustees, the following criteria is
    required:

    1. Must be a resident of the “Northern District”, which encompasses the School
      Districts of Diamond, Seneca, Neosho and East Newton, except for the Precincts of
      Stella and Fairview.
    2. Must be a U.S. Citizen.
    3. Must be at least 21 years of age.
    4. Must be a registered voter within the District.

      This term of appointment will be effective from the date of appointment by the Board of
      Trustees until the April, 2027 election.

      If you would like to be considered to the Board of Trustees of Crowder College, we would
      ask that you send a letter of interest on or before July 1, 2026, along with your home address and
      other contact information, and a curriculum vitae to the following:

      Elizabeth Armstrong
      Executive Assistant to the President
      Crowder College
      601 Laclede Ave.
      Neosho, MO 6485
  • May 14, 2026

    For Immediate Release
    Office of Public Information
    Crowder College

    Crowder Quill 45th anniversary awards magazine published

    Neosho, MO – The winners of the 45th anniversary contest for the Crowder Quill literary-art magazine of Crowder College have been announced and published. 

    For the 2025-26 contest, 919 entries were received, and 130 entries were awarded and published from 97 individuals in the categories of writing, photography, and art. The Crowder Quill was mailed to winning entrants, and the magazine is available at Crowder College campuses and in the community.

    A digital copy of the Crowder Quill is available at www.CrowderQuill.com, as well as information about how to enter next year’s contest, which is already open. Updates are provided on Facebook and Instagram as digital media marketing students practice and provide digital and social media content.

    Begun in 1980, the Quill is published each spring; the contest deadline is Feb. 1 each year, and divisions are high school, Crowder, and the community within 100 miles of any Crowder campus. 

    The magazine was produced in the Digital Marketing Applied Graphics course by the following students: Anika Adame, Joplin; Caitlin Cook, Stella; Jessi Hilton, Goodman; Julie Hilton, Goodman; Maddi Idell, Pineville; Aubrey Knachtal, Purdy; Megan Lawson, Neosho; Heather Maassen, Seneca; Damien Pauley, Carthage; Keira Yenzer, Joplin; and Latonia Bailey, Neosho, Adviser.

    All published entrants receive a certificate for gold, silver, bronze or honorable mention, as listed below. $500 scholarships are awarded to the high school gold winners for each category in the Crowder Quill literary/art contest. The one-time scholarship is for the top high school winner in each category: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, photography, digital art, 2D art, and 3D art for the 2026 contest.

    The Crowder Quill is a free literary/art magazine published at Crowder College in order to encourage and showcase the creative abilities of local writers, artists, and photographers, as well as provide a cultural link between Crowder College and our surrounding communities.

    As the course that produces the Quill transitions into the Career and Creative Writing certificate at Crowder beginning fall 2026, 2D and 3D Art categories will be discontinued in order to align with curriculum, create more space for writing, and encourage digital visual art participation. Artists working in traditional 2D and 3D media are encouraged to participate in the Digital Art category by adapting their work and expanding their creative skillsets. For more details, see the article “Contest Opens with Altered Categories” on the CrowderQuill.com website.

    Beginning with the 2026-27 contest cycle, which is now open, the categories for the Quill are fiction, nonfiction, poetry, color photography, B&W photography, and digital art, which is computer-generated or digitally altered art as well as extensively altered photography for special effects.

    This transition ensures the continued publication of the Crowder Quill. Relocating the course to a new program has allowed the magazine to continue its 45-year tradition of encouraging and celebrating creativity within the college and surrounding community.

    For more information, contact the program coordinator/instructor: LatoniaBailey@Crowder.edu.

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    Photo attached is the cover art “Vovo’” by Eduardo Maria Pissarra da Costa Salema of Portugal, a student at Carl Junction High School who won gold in the 2D Art category. Additional art is available on the website.

    FirstLast nameCategoryCity/TownDivisionHigh SchoolAwardTitle 
    LidiaAlejo2D ArtAndersonHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyHonorable MentionLa Birria 
    LidiaAlejoNonfictionAndersonHigh SchoolMcDonald CountySilverI Believe Culture Is an Important Part in Our Life 
    GraceAllisonB&W PhotographyAndersonHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyBronzeGrand Teton National Park 
    TiffanyBlevins3D ArtAndersonCommunityHonorable MentionLike a Greek God 
    TiffanyBlevinsDigital ArtAndersonCommunityHonorable MentionSleeping in the City 
    JournieDanielsNonfictionAndersonHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyBronzeRapid Deluge: The Flash Flood 
    JournieDanielsDigital ArtAndersonHigh SchoolMcDonald CountySilverIridescent Bubble 
    SteveWilsonB&W PhotographyAndersonCommunityBronzeMine 
    SierraWilsonColor PhotographyAndersonCommunitySilverPier into the Ocean 
    RaegenPhelpsFictionAuroraHigh SchoolAuroraGoldAmbition’s End  
    MollyCameron2D ArtCarl JunctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionBronzeOne Man’s Trash 
    MollyCameron3D ArtCarl JunctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionHonorable MentionKalos’astra 
    LydiaChurchillFictionCarl JunctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionSilverOnce and Forever, Peace 
    KadenEidem3D ArtCarl JunctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionHonorable MentionFish out of Water 
    MaristelaLacour2D ArtCarl JunctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionHonorable MentionShared Horizon 
    MaristelaLacourColor PhotographyCarl JunctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionHonorable MentionBelle Vue 
    BrookePopeColor PhotographyCarl JunctionCrowderHonorable MentionBogeys and Birdies 
    DecemberWilley2D ArtCarl JunctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionHonorable MentionPawp 
    AubreeAnderson3D ArtCarl JunctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionHonorable MentionSweet Treat 
    EduardoSalema2D ArtCarl junctionHigh SchoolCarl JunctionGoldVovó 
    MelanieChutaColor PhotographyCarthageCrowderGoldEchoes of the Ozarks 
    ValeFloresDigital ArtCarthageCrowderBronze“Not My Name” 
    DamienPauleyDigital ArtCarthageStaffStaffFlight of Fortresses 
    JahneePresley2D ArtCarthageCrowderSilverCow Skull 
    QuinlanRobertsPoetryCassvilleCrowderGoldDead Man Band 
    GarretAkinPoetryCassvilleCommunityGoldThe Tale of Cillian O’Clery 
    AubreeChisamColor PhotographyCraneCommunityHonorable MentionBarber Shop Moments 
    AubreeChisamDigital ArtCraneCommunitySilverMatmos 
    CaliWooldridgeB&W PhotographyEl Dorado SpringsCrowderBronzeRing Ring 
    AngelaCarterColor PhotographyFairviewCrowderSilverA Northern Sky 
    HollyVogelpohlB&W PhotographyFairviewCrowderGoldSpecter of the Sea 
    BryceHallNonfictionGoodmanCrowderGoldThe Epic Showdown 
    PaulHilton3D ArtGoodmanCommunitySilverKnife Handle 
    JessiHilton2D ArtGoodmanStaffStaffOcean Oil Painting 
    JessiHilton3D ArtGoodmanStaffStaffNatural Object: Shell 
    JessiHiltonColor PhotographyGoodmanStaffStaffCrowder After Dark 
    JessiHiltonFictionGoodmanStaffStaffRunning Toward Tomorrow 
    JessiHiltonNonfictionGoodmanStaffStaffHow It Feels To Be Seen 
    JessiHiltonPoetryGoodmanStaffStaffWhen the Sun Hides 
    JulieHilton2D ArtGoodmanStaffStaffFall Reflections 
    JulieHiltonB&W PhotographyGoodmanStaffStaffExpecto Patronum 
    JulieHiltonColor PhotographyGoodmanStaffStaffCape May Winter 
    JulieHiltonDigital ArtGoodmanStaffStaffHarry Potter & The Cat, Owl, and Train 
    JulieHiltonNonfictionGoodmanStaffStaffThe Cousins 
    JulieHiltonPoetryGoodmanStaffStaffMisnamed Semester 
    BuckOwenPoetryGoodmanCommunityBronzeWildflowers Don’t Care Where They Grow 
    SaydeeWheelerFictionGoodmanCrowderGoldUbi Amor, Ibi Vita 
    DawnKimmel2D ArtGranbyCommunitySilverSunken Splendor 
    JolisaMoua2D ArtGranbyCrowderGoldBlind Faith 
    EllieAllgood2D ArtJaneHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyHonorable MentionReminiscence 
    AnikaAdame2D ArtJoplinStaffStaffMammoth 
    AnikaAdameB&W PhotographyJoplinStaffStaffThe Tree Changes Too 
    AnikaAdameDigital ArtJoplinStaffStaffCRT Dreams 
    SophiaAnderson2D ArtJoplinCrowderBronzeDozing of the Trees 
    SophiaAndersonNonfictionJoplinCrowderSilverIt’s In Here 
    DouglasBrownNonfictionJoplinCrowderBronzeRite of Passage 
    JulieCatlett2D ArtJoplinCommunityBronzeSepia Dreams 
    AmberDavidsonColor PhotographyJoplinCommunityHonorable MentionBurano 
    LolaFontanaDigital ArtJoplinCrowderSilverBe Gentle 
    BrooklynnMcGeheePoetryJoplinHigh SchoolCarl JunctionSilverI’m Sorry I’m Not Your Perfect Art Project 
    NellieMitchell3D ArtJoplinCommunityBronzeSandworm 
    MckenzieSarakinisNonfictionJoplinCommunityBronzeHow Our Environment Affects Our Culture and Vice Versa 
    BrinnSchnelle3D ArtJoplinCommunityHonorable MentionTea Time 
    Billie HolladaySkelleyPoetryJoplinCommunityHonorable MentionAvian Imposter 
    Billie HolladaySkelleyFictionJoplinCommunitySilverWinds of Change 
    Billie HolladaySkelleyNonfictionJoplinCommunitySilverAll Together Now: Murmurations 
    LoganWeaverColor PhotographyJoplinHigh SchoolCarl JunctionGoldMountain Lake Trail 
    KeiraYenzerNonfictionJoplinStaffStaffMemoir or Momoir 
    KeiraYenzerPoetryJoplinStaffStaffBanksy 
    KellyReddinFictionJoplinCommunityGoldThe Mirror 
    KellyReddinNonfictionJoplinCommunityHonorable MentionBeing Nana Claus 
    KeelyTaffner3D ArtLamarHigh SchoolLamarBronzeA Day at the Beach 
    RonaldSmithFictionLoma LindaCommunityBronzeGriffin Greenfeld’s Final Message 
    RitaJohnsonPoetryMarionville MissouriHigh SchoolMarionvilleGoldZombies 
    MagdalynLindsey3D ArtMonettCrowderGoldGirl’s Best Friend 
    MagdalynLindsey2D ArtMonettCrowderHonorable MentionGood Grief 
    AlyMassardoFictionMonettCommunityHonorable MentionCandlelight 
    MandieAdamsColor PhotographyMount VernonCommunityBronzeA Century Crowned 
    HaleyKreighbaumPoetryNeck CityHigh SchoolWebb CityHonorable MentionThe Comeback 
    MarcyAbercrombieB&W PhotographyNeoshoCommunityGoldSpider Waiting at Entrance of Its Funnel Web 
    LatoniaBaileyB&W PhotographyNeoshoStaffStaffBeach Love 
    LatoniaBaileyColor PhotographyNeoshoStaffStaffLower Antelope Canyon 
    LatoniaBaileyDigital ArtNeoshoStaffStaffFerris Sketch 
    SelahBridgesNonfictionNeoshoCrowderHonorable MentionDreams Do Come True 
    SamanthaCaffertyPoetryNeoshoCrowderBronzeConfetti Theory 
    SamanthaCaffertyFictionNeoshoCrowderHonorable MentionUnrescued 
    VenitaHenson3D ArtNeoshoCommunityGoldThe Winged Fox 
    VenitaHensonFictionNeoshoCrowderSilverHome Is Where My Heart Is 
    ReginaHightowerColor PhotographyNeoshoCrowderBronzeButterfly 
    CassandraJordanNonfictionNeoshoCommunitySpecial MeritDo You Dare 
    MeganLawsonFictionNeoshoStaffStaffFood Tastes Stronger When You’re Hungry 
    TerrinMcilvainePoetryNeoshoCommunitySilverLord of Cinders 
    Michael KMoore2D ArtNeoshoCommunityGoldRiver Crossing 
    MaisieWeston3D ArtNeoshoCrowderSilverRed Squiggle Tea Set 
    LoganBartonDigital ArtNoelHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyGoldAgua Cristalina 
    JamieBillingsDigital ArtNoelCommunityBronzeWhat’s the Tea? 
    JaxHarrisB&W PhotographynoelHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyHonorable MentionSwish 
    LeahStephens3D ArtNoelHigh SchoolMcDonald CountySilverSwirling Sky 
    MaggieMarionColor PhotographyPierce CityHigh SchoolEast Newton High SchoolBronzeTools of the Land 
    BrileyDavisFictionPinevilleHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyHonorable MentionThe Knocking in the Wall 
    PeytonHolidayFictionPinevilleHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyBronzeDragons Blight 
    MaddilynnIdell2D ArtPinevilleStaffStaffGeneral Chicken 
    MaddilynnIdell3D ArtPinevilleStaffStaffKita the Kitsune 
    MaddilynnIdellColor PhotographyPinevilleStaffStaffGolden Hour 
    DominickTrimbleNonfictionPinevilleHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyGoldJenny 
    DavidZachariasDigital ArtPittsburg, KSCommunityGoldDevil’s Tower Moon 
    DavidZachariasB&W PhotographyPittsburg, KSCommunityHonorable MentionMoab Bluff 1 
    JaydenMustainColor PhotographyPowellHigh SchoolMcDonald CountySilverThe Ones Who Watch Over 
    AubreyKnatcalDigital ArtPurdyStaffStaffFortune Plant 
    LeannaMoore3D ArtPurdyCrowderBronzeNature’s Inner Twines 
    HannahTownePoetryRich HillCrowderSilverNot Spoken 
    EdenRayPoetrySarcoxieHigh SchoolSarcoxieHonorable MentionSuffocation 
    LexiBurlingameFictionScammon, KSCrowderBronzeA Haunted Family 
    LuapMcKeever2D ArtSeligmanCommunityHonorable MentionFoggy Mountain 
    ChayceBowmanB&W PhotographySenecaHigh SchoolMcDonald CountyGoldClassic Muscle 
    HeatherMaassenNonfictionSenecaStaffStaffPain and Profit 
    M.E.RoweNonfictionSenecaCommunityGoldTwenty-six Letters 
    CaitlynBonass3D ArtShell KnobHigh SchoolCassville High SchoolGoldFrom the Ashes 
    JonathanMartinezB&W PhotographySouthwest CityHigh SchoolMcDonald CountySilverLazy Daisy 
    KadiceyWellsB&W PhotographyStark CityCrowderSilverGrace in Stillness 
    CaitlinCookB&W PhotographyStellaStaffStaffSilhouette 
    CaitlinCookColor PhotographyStellaStaffStaffStrings 
    StacyKernColor PhotographyStotts CityCommunityGoldDragonfly, Oklahoma 
    StacyKernB&W PhotographyStotts CityCommunityHonorable MentionBehind the Chutes 
    DanielGravesB&W PhotographyWebb CityCommunitySilverSpine Black Mountain 
    CheyenneHillDigital ArtWebb CityCrowderGoldPorcelain Doll 
    ElizabethRhuems2D ArtWebb CityHigh SchoolWebb CitySilverA Late Summer Bloom 
    HanaScerbejovaPoetryWebb CityHigh SchoolWebb CityBronzeUnfamiliar 
    HopeShinnPoetryWebb CityHigh SchoolWebb CityHonorable MentionThe Living Truth, The Present 
    DixiStrawPoetryWebb CityCrowderHonorable MentionNature in My Home! 
  • Crowder College has 476 students applying to graduate this spring 2026 semester.

    Commencement ceremonies will be held at Crowder College on the Neosho campus, 601 Laclede Ave, in Bob Sneller Gymnasium. There are three ceremonies as follows:

    • Friday, May 15, 7pm – Associate of Science, Nursing and Practical Nursing graduates from McDonald County and Nevada
    • Saturday, May 16, 10am – All Agriculture, Education, and General Studies graduates
    • Saturday, May 16, 1pm – All other degrees and certificates

    Fellow graduate, Maelyn Wright, will be the commencement speaker at both of the Saturday ceremonies. Wright is graduating with her Associate of Arts in Agriculture – Ag Education degree. The ceremonies will be livestreamed on the College’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/CrowderCollege

    The vision statement for the college: Changing lives and strengthening communities one student at a time, inspired a goal of 842 graduates for the Summer/Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters. Summer and fall totaled 400 graduates. This puts the college well on its way to achieving the goal after Spring 2026 degrees have been conferred.

    Crowder College provides degrees that transfer to a 4-year college or university and certificates and degrees that allow graduates entry into the workforce. The College has locations in Neosho, Cassville, Joplin, McDonald County, Nevada, and Webb City, with online options as well serving southwest Missouri and the surrounding region.

  • May 8, 2026 

    For Immediate Release 
    Office of Public Information 
    Crowder College 

    RE: Crowder College Employees of the Year Announced 

    Neosho, MO – Crowder College held its annual end of year celebration today honoring employees.  

    Traditionally, the college takes nominations for three awards: Classified Staff, Professional Staff, and Teacher of the Year. This year’s recipients include: 

    Classified Staff – Megan Lawson, Senior Administrative Assistant – Academic Affairs. Lawson has been employed by the college for 5 years. 

    Professional Staff – Henri Whitehead, Academic Success & Testing Specialist. Whitehead has been employed by the college for 3 years. 

    Faculty of the Year – Greg Murdock, Business Instructor. Murdock has been employed by the college for 7 years. 

    In recent years, the addition of awards for ‘Exemplifying our Values’ have been implemented. This years Value Awards were presented to: 

    • We are passionate about making a difference – Shally Lundien, Director of Admissions 
    • We care about one another – Heather Flint, Transfer and Career Advisor 
    • We cultivate curiosity and innovation – Jenna Boatright, Admissions Programming Coordinator 
    • We learn from our mistakes – Colleen Holland, Bookstore Director 
    • We respect diverse perspectives – Elizabeth Armstrong, Executive Assistant to the President 

    In addition, employees were recognized for milestones achieved in years of service and those retiring. College staff from all locations were provided lunch and opportunities to win prizes via the Human Resources Office. 

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    Megan Lawson
    Henri Whitehead
    Greg Murdock
  • April 29, 2026

    For Immediate Release
    Office of Public Information
    Crowder College

    RE: Crowder and Ajinomoto sign apprenticeship agreement

    Joplin, MO – Crowder College and Ajinomoto Foods North America, a specialty frozen food manufacturer focused on well-being through everyday eating experiences, have partnered to offer an Advanced Manufacturing Industrial Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship program for employees at its Carthage location.

    “This apprenticeship reflects what we heard from both residents and employers as we are developing our next strategic plan: there’s a need for relevant, low-cost training tied to real jobs,” stated Dr. Chett Daniel, Crowder College President. “Through this partnership, Crowder is helping employers access the talent they need while opening doors to high-demand careers for area residents. At Crowder, we believe southwest Missouri is strengthened when we connect the needs of area workforce with the potential of area residents.”

    Crowder College provides several apprenticeship programs with area business in electrical, carpentry, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. These programs are designed for an employee to earn and learn at the same time. Missouri ranks in the top 10 states for apprenticeship programs according to Apprenticeship USA.

    “We are looking forward to this opportunity, both as an employer looking for top talent as well as the chance to help develop the future workforce,” said Dakota Botts, Ajinomoto General Manager. “We rely heavily on skilled technicians and this mutual partnership will be beneficial to us.”

    The signing of this apprenticeship during National Apprenticeship Week, April 26-May 2, 2026, provides exposure for all the programs. For more information on apprenticeships at Crowder College, visit https://www.crowder.edu/business-community/grants/apprenticeships/

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    Photo (l-r): Dakota Botts, Ajinomoto Foods North America, General Manager; and Dr. Chett Daniel, President, Crowder College.