2024 was marked by transformative achievements and bold strides for the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
From groundbreaking research and nationally recognized programs to impactful community partnerships, UMKC continues to set new benchmarks in higher education. As we look back on this remarkable year, we celebrate the dedication, talent and collaboration that have shaped our progress and continue to drive our vision for the future.
Here are the Top 10 stories of 2024 at UMKC.
Celebrating Construction of the Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building
The groundbreaking of the $145 million Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building marked a historic milestone for Kansas City and the region's healthcare future. As the largest capital project in the university’s history, this state-of-the-art facility is set to transform healthcare education, research and community outreach.
UMKC Awarded $5 Million from Mellon Foundation
UMKC received a transformative $5 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to fund paid internships for more than 180 humanities students over five years. The program, led by the UMKC School of Humanities and Social Sciences, connects students with nonprofit organizations and research teams to provide valuable skills, career exploration and professional development before graduation.
Three UMKC Graduate School Programs Ranked Among Nation’s Top 40
This spring, three UMKC graduate programs ranked among the nation’s top 40 by U.S. News & World Report. The Doctor of Nursing Practice program climbed 30 spots to 19th, leading the region. The Doctor of Pharmacy program ranked 31st, and School of Law earned top marks in legal writing (16th) and trial advocacy (48th).
Two Super Bowl Rings Before UMKC Graduation
UMKC history student Meghan Jaben (M.A. ’16), an Interdisciplinary Ph.D. candidate, combined her passion for sports and art through a unique internship with the Kansas City Chiefs, working on the Arrowhead Art Collection. Made possible by UMKC’s strong community partnerships, the internship allowed Jaben to contribute to one of Kansas City’s most iconic landmarks, GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
Coming Soon: More Campus Dining Options at UMKC
Set to open January 2025, the Foodiverse was announced earlier this year as a new campus dining experience. Located on the first floor of the Student Union, the food-parlor-style space will feature eight dining options, including a full-service Starbucks, Chick-fil-A and stations for pizza, deli, grill and allergen-free meals.
Roos' Historic Season Comes to a Close in Extra Time in the Round of 16
Kansas City Men’s Soccer capped off a historic season in 2024, advancing to the NCAA Tournament Round of 16 for the first time in program history. Under Head Coach Ryan Pore, the Roos returned to the tournament for the first time since 2008, setting records with 14 wins, 56 goals and 60 assists.
Photo by Francie Wilson
UMKC Conservatory Gala Raises More than $1 Million for Student Scholarships
The UMKC Conservatory achieved a significant milestone this fall, raising over $1 million to support scholarships for students in music, dance and theater. This record-breaking success follows a format change to Crescendo, the annual gala hosted by Friends of the Conservatory, which was held this year at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. In April 2025, Crescendo will return to its traditional format at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, showcasing a collage of student performances.
UMKC on the Threshold of Elite Research Designation
Recent growth in research expenditures and sponsored grants has positioned UMKC within reach of the elite Carnegie Research 1 designation, expected as soon as Spring 2025. Achieving R1 status would place UMKC among the top research universities in the nation, enhancing its ability to attract world-class faculty and students, foster innovation and entrepreneurship and expand community partnerships. This milestone would elevate Kansas City as a hub for research, innovation and economic growth.
Grand Slam! UMKC Students Help Build a Robot to Throw Royals First Pitch
As part of a unique partnership with the Kansas City Royals, UMKC computer science students helped local middle and high school students design and build a robot to throw the ceremonial first pitch at School Day at The K. Collaborating with WeCode KC and the KC STEM Alliance, the team worked on coding, designing and troubleshooting the robot.
Photo by Pine Tar Collective
UMKC Adds Eight New Ph.D. Programs
Starting Fall 2025, UMKC will offer eight new Ph.D. programs in fields such as engineering, computer science, economics, education, humanities and natural sciences, furthering its mission to enhance research and community impact.
