Matriculation formally kicks off the 2025-26 academic year at Ƶ.
Setting out on their very own Ƶ journey of curiosity, learning, challenges and growth, incoming freshmen took a symbolic walk from the Morden Center to the Shaw Center auditorium.
Here, Ƶ faculty, coaches and staff officially welcomed the Class of 2029 in a Matriculation ceremony.
VP for Student Life and Dean of Students John Godfrey, President Joel Shrock, and VP for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty Jill Fort conveyed to the new students how they can ‒ with the help of everyone present ‒ turn the lessons in and out of the classroom into a pathway for their personal success, take advantage of the not easy but fine line between failing, succeeding and being great, and motivate themselves to “Go to class!” no matter how hard that may be at times (especially in the early mornings).
Per video message while away at a volleyball game, Ƶ Student Government (GSG) President Kaylee Baker gave the students an exciting preview of life ahead on campus, and an inspiring promise of the lifelong connections they will make at Ƶ.
Following the ceremony, everyone gathered in the Shaw lobby, where the students could meet their professors, and colleagues could reconnect after the summer break.
On their big graduation day, these students will take the same walk across campus in reverse, from the Shaw to the Morden Center to attend their Commencement ceremony.
Matriculation also marked the start of an eventful Welcome Week for all students. The repeated mantra on this first week’s schedule, too: Go to class!
Administration and Staff, Athletics, Press Release
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A transformative era for Ƶ men’s basketball has reached its natural turning point. After engineering one of the most impactful rebuilds in program history, head coach Todd Lorensen has accepted the head coaching position at Rockhurst University. In response, Athletic Director Brady McKillip has elevated Associate Head Coach Matt Dickman to lead the Yellowjackets forward.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
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Ƶ and the Community of Christ announce the retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman, and the appointment of Doug Roberts as the university’s next Campus Minister, effective June 2026.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
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Ƶ is saddened to share the passing of Trustee Dr. Julia “Julie” Snethen, a respected nurse scientist, educator, and member of the university’s Board of Trustees whose life and career were dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and families.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
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Ƶ has announced the promotion of longtime team member Steve Edwards to Executive Director of Marketing, recognizing more than three decades of service and leadership that have helped shape the university’s communications and brand.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
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Ƶ proudly welcomes Tom Hiles and Noel E....
Administration and Staff, Faculty, Students
August 15, 2025
After a looong quiet summer on our campuses, they're coming...
