- Date published
We’re bursting with excitement! Our friends (members, partners – you name it!) at Leadership Springfield announced an innovative partnership with Missouri State University.
Now, graduates of their prestigious Signature Class program can earn up to six hours of graduate-level credit toward select MSU programs.
This includes graduate certificates and master’s degree programs in:
- Project Management
- Communication
- Professional Studies
- Education (doctoral degree)
This is HUGE news for our community! And as a part of Missouri State’s Division of Community and Global Partnerships, we’re over the moon about the possibilities of even deeper connections with such incredible programs.
“Leadership Springfield is a vital part of what makes our Springfield community leaders so exemplary. We’ve long been fans and supporters of their important programs, and we were thrilled to open the door to a partnership with the MSU Graduate College,” said Rachel Munday (Anderson), Executive Director of efactory at Missouri State University.
“Thanks to Dean Julie Masterson for seeing the incredible value in this program and how it translates to the MSU Graduate College’s mission of cutting-edge and innovative education to support advanced talent and workforce development”

Rachel Munday
“This partnership has been years in the making, and we’re thrilled to see it come to life,” said Carrie Richardson, Executive Director of Leadership Springfield.
“The collaboration with Missouri State University’s Graduate College strengthens our shared commitment to leadership development in our community, and we are grateful for the time, energy and effort that went into this process!”
For years, Leadership Springfield has been developing and inspiring the next generation of leaders, through their rigorous 9-month program.
For years, Leadership Springfield has been developing and inspiring the next generation of leaders, through their rigorous 9-month program.
Carrie Richardson
“Signature Class graduates get hands-on critical thinking experiences and exposure to complex community challenges. By completing the program, graduates have demonstrated their ability to lead initiatives that solve challenging problems and create positive social change,” said Dr. Carrisa Hoelscher, Associate Dean of the Missouri State Graduate College.
“Such an experience mirrors the analytical, problem-solving and leadership skills developed through graduate education — particularly in the graduate programs participating in this partnership.Partnerships like this epitomize our Public Affairs mission, strengthening our community engagement and demonstrating MSU’s commitment to lifelong learning.”

Dr. Carrisa Hoelscher
“This collaboration directly contributes to the development of our community’s next generation of leaders, giving these professionals the opportunity to grow and innovate in a way that benefits us all.”
Want to learn more?
This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration and the commitment to fostering leadership development in our community. Congratulations to Leadership Springfield and Missouri State University!