Crowder College has joined The Higher Education Male Achievement Collaborative (HEMAC), a national initiative focused on improving outcomes for men in higher education.
HEMAC, a program of the American Institute for Boys & Men (AIBM), connects colleges and universities committed to increasing enrollment, retention, and completion rates among male students.
“Across the country, male participation in higher education has dropped to just 34%, continuing a decades-long decline,” states Dr. Chett Daniel, president of Crowder College. “This is not just an enrollment issue, it’s a workforce and community issue. As Crowder shapes our next strategic plan, we are committed to doing a better job of centering the voices of those we serve.”
A team of Crowder faculty and staff will participate in virtual and in-person workshops, collaborating with peer institutions to share research, strategies, and best practices. The effort aims not only to address declining male enrollment, but also to better understand the broader social and well-being challenges facing men in higher education.
As Crowder is preparing to implement its next strategic plan, the college has worked to identify gaps in engagement and tailor support services for specific groups such as young adult male students, adult female students, and traditional age (Generation Z) college students. The HEMAC partnership will assist the college in finding new ways to engage young men in the region.
– A unique, workforce-focused partnership between Crowder College and the MoDOT SW District General Services Team took the spotlight at the Missouri State Capitol on Tuesday of this week when they received the 2025 Governor’s Award for Quality and Productivity (GAQP).
The partnership was created to fill a need of transportation and diesel industry shortages, rising repair costs and other factors while also helping students gain hands-on, real-world experiences and potential careers. That’s where Crowder College Technical Education instructor Clarence Brewer (Diesel Technology) and Ben Strong with MoDOT have worked to bridge that gap, addressing both the needs of MoDOT and Crowder students eager to learn. Ben Strong knows first-hand the importance of partnerships like this one, as he used to be the high school CTEC Diesel Technology instructor and is an alumnus of the college program. He has been a spearhead in the creation of this partnership.
There were 14 nominations submitted from six state agencies for the 2025 Governor’s Award for Quality and Productivity and the Crowder College collaboration was awarded in the innovation category.
“The partnership between Crowder College and MoDOT represents the kind of innovative workforce collaboration that creates a valuable impact. Our Diesel Technology students gain hands-on experience by diagnosing and repairing real fleet equipment under the guidance of expert faculty, while MoDOT benefits from quality repairs and a direct connection to a pipeline of highly skilled technicians,” said Melissa Smith, Director of Post-Secondary Career and Technical Education, Crowder College. “These authentic learning opportunities bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace, preparing students to meet the demands of today’s transportation and diesel industries while strengthening Missouri’s workforce.”
Within the last 3 years, the Diesel Technology program at Crowder College has repaired over 30 pieces of MoDOT equipment, saved the state more than $50,000 in labor costs, lowered repair times and facilitated internships and careers for these students with MoDOT.
For Immediate Release Office of Public Information Crowder College
Neosho, MO– Crowder College Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math Science programs have over 235 high school students who recently completed grades 9-12 participating in their summer College Prep Academy. The students reside on campus Sunday-Thursday for a five-week period, preparing for the upcoming school year while gaining a college experience by living on campus. Those who recently graduated will take college credit hour classes which may be used at Crowder or any college or university they plan to attend.
UB and UBMS serves 300 students from 37 high schools in southwest Missouri from 10 counties. UB/UBMS are part of the TRIO programs which are federally-funded and designed to provide educational access and assistance to income-eligible, first-generation, and/or students with disability.
Each student will select a research class based on career interests. There are 20 research options for the students including: Medical Mysteries, Crime Scene Investigation, Business, Law, Entrepreneurship in Practice, Summer Sociology, Fire and Forest Ecology, and more.
Many of the research classes provide hands on projects to learn more about the subject as well as occupations. The summer program will wrap up with research presentations held June 24, 8-11am and 2-5pm.
For Immediate Release Office of Public Information Crowder College
RE: Summer enrollment increases
Crowder College reported its summer enrollment in credit hours increased 6.32% over 2025 and head count increased by 5.99%. Enrollment in summer classes totaled 1,167 students taking classes for a total of 6,185 credit hours.
“Enrollment continues the positive momentum which began last fall,” commented Dr. Chett Daniel, President. “Our enrollment increases during the most recent fall, spring and now summer semesters have averaged over 6%. This is a clear indication that people who are considering career and education pathways are looking for value and relevance of programs of study. We have been working hard to ensure our programs are aligned to the regional workforce or transfer easily to universities.”
Crowder College offers flexible in-person and online courses across a wide range of programs, providing accessible learning opportunities for the region. During the summer term, students take advantage of lower costs, apprenticeships, A+ scholarships, and Fast Track Grants to help reduce the total cost of attendance providing students the opportunity to go to work quickly with little or no student debt.
Enrollment for fall classes through the first week of the fall semester which starts August 17, 2026. Prospective students may enroll at any Crowder College location. For more information, please visit our website: www.crowder.edu or contact the location closest to you.
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.
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.
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.
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/
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:
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.
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:
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.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be at least 21 years of age.
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
