Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) welcomed Governor Mike Kehoe and First Lady Claudia Kehoe to campus on February 9, 2026, as Compass Academy Network (CAN) hosted a special “Compass in Conversation” event celebrating the impact of its educational programming. The event took place at the Ron Richard Athletic Center on the MSSU campus.
The Compass Academy Network spotlighted middle school students, peer mentors, and educators through an open dialogue featuring program participants. The event included a welcome from MSSU President Dr. Dean Van Galen and remarks from Compass Academy Network CEO and Founder Debra Humphreys, and Governor Mike Kehoe, Attendees also heard student stories and learned about a special announcement regarding the program’s locations for 2026.
“Missouri Southern State University is proud to serve as the site for the Joplin Compass Academy Network in 2026,” said Dr. Dean Van Galen, MSSU president. “CAN’s mission aligns strongly with MSSU’s commitment to student success and educational access. We are excited to be apart of this tremendous program.”
As part of his visit to Joplin, Governor Kehoe also visited Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School and toured the Joplin Historical Neighborhood Museum Complex.
Reference:
University Relations and Marketing
Missouri Southern State University
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