They’ll advocate for sustainability in journalism, enhance international business, improve public health and build engaged communities.

The university’s Board of Governors acknowledged six students with the Citizen Scholar award today (Dec. 16). The award honors students who exemplify academic success and the university’s public affairs mission.

The 2021-22 Citizen Scholars

The Citizen Scholar recipients are:

Diana Dudenhoeffer, senior, Springfield, Missouri

Dudenhoeffer is majoring in journalism. After her graduation in May 2022, she plans to work at a forward-thinking publication that brings together her passions for journalism and sustainability.

Manuel Jose Elivo-Jerez, graduate, Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic

Elivo-Jerez is working on a Master of Business Administration. He earned a bachelor’s degree in international business administration and will pursue a career in his field of study.

Emily Fessler, graduate, Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Fessler is working on a Master of Public Health. She earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology and plans to pursue a doctoral program in medical anthropology or public health.

Cole Howerton, senior, Conway, Missouri

Howerton is majoring in history. After graduation, he plans to  enroll in Missouri State’s Master of Defense and Strategic Studies program, then use what he learned to serve the Springfield community.

Weston Phipps, graduate, Houston, Missouri

Phipps is working on a Master of Experimental Psychology. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, plans to complete a PhD program in clinical psychology, and aims to practice therapy and teach psychology at a university.

Morgan Spoor, senior, Gainesville, Missouri

Spoor is in the nursing completion program for registered nurses. Upon completion, she plans to get a master’s degree at Missouri State and become a flight nurse.