Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University named Blake Deppe of Washington, Missouri, and Kaelee Karcher of McLeansboro, Illinois, its 2026 Man and Woman of the Year during halftime of the Homecoming football game on Saturday, Oct. 17. The award recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence, campus leadership and a commitment to community service. Deppe, an agribusiness major with an emphasis in agricultural communication and a minor in integrated marketing communication, was sponsored by the Student Activities Council. Karcher, a business administration major, was sponsored by Alpha Delta Pi.

Southeast Missouri State University named Blake Deppe of Washington, Missouri, and Kaelee Karcher of McLeansboro, Illinois, its 2026 Man and Woman of the Year during halftime of the Homecoming football game on Saturday, Oct. 17. The awards recognize students who demonstrate academic excellence, campus leadership and a commitment to community service. Deppe, an agribusiness major with an emphasis in agricultural communication and a minor in integrated marketing communication, was sponsored by the Student Activities Council. Karcher, a business administration major, was sponsored by Alpha Delta Pi.

Ten Southeast Missouri State University students have been named finalists for the 2026 Man and Woman of the Year awards, recognizing their academic achievements, campus leadership and community involvement. The Man of the Year finalists are Chris Carbajal, Blake Deppe, Max Dunn, Zavior Mize and Lucas Prince. The Woman of the Year finalists are Kaelee Karcher, Jaiden Myers, Allison Schulte, Laci Tallo and Emilie Torres. Sponsored by recognized University student organizations, the finalists represent a range of academic programs and have demonstrated leadership through campus activities, philanthropic initiatives and student engagement.

The Southeast Missouri State University Marching Band was selected to perform in the 2028 St. Patrick's Day Parade as part of the St. Patrick's Festival in Dublin, Ireland. The invitation followed an extensive application and review process, with SEMO chosen from bands required to meet established performance standards. The international trip will give students an opportunity to experience Irish culture while representing SEMO, Cape Girardeau and the region before an international audience.

Southeast Missouri State University graduate student Bhavya Narula and alumnus Jaimin Patel earned second place at the Missouri Pitch Competition for Afern AI, a company they co-founded to help independent hotels manage calls and reservations using artificial intelligence. The team received up to $35,000 in engineering services funded by Amazon Web Services and delivered by nClouds to support integration with hotel booking systems. Already in use at a Tennessee hotel, Afern AI has handled more than 3,000 calls, helping address staffing challenges and missed bookings.

Southeast Missouri State University junior Clayton Williams, a cybersecurity major from St. Louis, earned a $500 prize and consideration for an internship at the Leidos Maritime Domain Awareness Hackathon in St. Louis. Williams teamed with a Saint Louis University computer science student to tackle programming challenges involving maritime geospatial systems, applying skills developed through his coursework. The experience also allowed him to identify a software issue he later incorporated into a SEMO assignment.

SEMO President Dr. Brad Hodson is hitting the road to visit the hometowns of current students across the region. Along the way, they're sharing the people, places and traditions that helped shape who they are before they ever stepped foot on campus. Meet Landon, a student from Holcomb, Missouri. At the link below, join Landon and Dr. Hodson as they explore the town she's proud to call home. Show Me Home: Holcomb, MO

A gift from Southeast Missouri State University alumnus provided funding for psychology major Madison Bonee to participate in SEMO's 2026 summer paleontology field school in Montana, making her the first student from the University's Kennett campus to take part in the experience. The annual field school gives students from any major hands-on experience locating, excavating and documenting dinosaur fossils alongside paleontologists and field experts. Fossils collected during the field school are also used in SEMO courses, educational outreach and exhibits at the Crisp Museum at the River Campus.

SEMO President Dr. Brad Hodson is hitting the road to visit the hometowns of current students across the region. Along the way, they're sharing the people, places and traditions that helped shape who they are before they ever stepped foot on campus. We're excited to share the first stop with you. Meet Allie, a student from Benton, Missouri. Join Allie and Dr. Hodson as they explore the town she's proud to call home. Show Me Home: Benton, Missouri

While many college students are still exploring career paths, Southeast Missouri State University political science major Will Erpenbach is already putting his education into practice as an elected alderman in his hometown of Arcadia, Missouri. Elected at just 20 years old, Erpenbach balances coursework with public service, using the critical thinking, research and problem-solving skills he has developed at SEMO to address community needs, secure funding and support local growth. Erpenbach plans to attend Saint Louis University School of Law after graduation before returning home to serve as a prosecutor.

Southeast Missouri State University graduate student Bhavya Narula transformed his first-place Harrison College of Business and Computing Hackathon project into TrustFall, an AI-powered cybersecurity platform that helps users identify scams, phishing attempts and suspicious online content before they become victims. Developed through hands-on learning and faculty mentorship, the tool analyzes messages, emails, links and screenshots to provide clear, easy-to-understand explanations of potential threats.

Two Southeast Missouri State University music students are advancing to the live semifinals of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) National Student Auditions, placing them among the top collegiate vocalists in the country. Recent graduate Asa Faust and sophomore Alex Woodward advanced through state, regional and national rounds to earn spots at the national semifinals, which will be held July 3-5 during the NATS National Conference in San Antonio, Texas.

Southeast Missouri State University graduate Emily Hudgins has become the first student in SEMO history to receive a Fulbright U.S. Student Program award, earning the opportunity to conduct marine macroinvertebrate research in Indonesia. A recent biology graduate, Hudgins was selected through a highly competitive national process that recognizes academic achievement, leadership potential and cross-cultural engagement. Her project combines her passion for biology, research and international experiences while allowing her to contribute meaningful scientific work abroad. SEMO's Fulbright Program Advisor, Dr. Kevin Timlin, called the award a historic milestone for the University.

Two Southeast Missouri State University students recently participated in the Model Constitutional Convention at Washington University in St. Louis, a national academic simulation that allows students to debate, draft and propose constitutional amendments. Through assigned state delegations and committees, participants explored how a modern constitution might evolve while engaging with diverse perspectives from across the country. SEMO students described the experience as a valuable hands-on learning opportunity that deepened their understanding of constitutional governance, civic engagement and public policy.

At Southeast Missouri State University, music students gain professional-level experience through performance opportunities that take them to prestigious venues across the country and around the world, including Carnegie Hall, Disney Concert Hall and international stages in Italy and China. Through hands-on learning, faculty mentorship and participation in competitive ensembles, students develop the skills and confidence needed for careers in music. Dr. Nicholas Kenney, assistant professor of music, said the program focuses on helping students reach their full potential through real-world performance experiences. Student Jordan Pavelka, a recipient of the Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award, said performing at the Fresno Orchestra Summer Academy (FOOSA) provided valuable professional experience and reflected SEMO's culture of support and achievement. Together, these opportunities prepare students for graduate study, performance careers and success throughout the music industry.

After graduating this spring with a degree in agribusiness: industry, Wyatt Hendley is preparing to attend law school at the University of Mississippi with plans to specialize in agricultural law and return to southeast Missouri to serve local farmers. A seventh-generation farmer from Bloomfield, Missouri, Hendley used his time at SEMO to gain hands-on experience in agriculture and policy through organizations such as Collegiate Farm Bureau, where he represented Missouri agriculture in Washington, D.C., earned the title of state champion in the Discussion Meet competition, and competed nationally.

After graduating this spring with degrees in agribusiness: animal science and agricultural communications, Lainey Canning has turned her internship experience into a full-time career as a marketing and communications coordinator with Wehmeyer Seed Company in Mascoutah, Illinois. Raised on her family's farm in southern Illinois, Canning combined her agricultural background with hands-on learning opportunities at SEMO, including internships, student employment, and leadership roles across campus.

Southeast Missouri State University graduate Grant Breece is turning years of campus leadership and hands-on learning into a future career in special education and applied behavior analysis. A Gideon, Missouri, native and second-generation SEMO student, Breece graduated with a degree in exceptional child: mild/moderate cross categorical and a certificate in autism studies while serving in numerous leadership roles across campus, including Sigma Nu chapter president and Student Government Association vice president. Recognized for his service and leadership, Breece also earned several campus honors and helped lead Sigma Nu to the Interfraternity Council Chapter of the Year Award.

Twenty-one Southeast Missouri State University performing arts seniors recently traveled to New York City for an immersive professional showcase experience designed to prepare them for careers in the entertainment industry. The group, made up of BFA acting and musical theatre students, participated in masterclasses, workshops and networking opportunities with casting directors, agents, music directors and Broadway professionals while training in some of the city's top rehearsal studios. Students also performed live and digital showcases for industry professionals, creating opportunities for auditions, representation and career connections as they transition from college to the professional stage.

Southeast Missouri State University has announced its Dean's List for undergraduate academic achievement during the spring 2026 semester. Students named to the Dean's List earned at least a 3.75 grade point average on a 4.0 scale and completed at least 12 hours of standard graded credit. They received no grade below a B and received no failing grades in enrolled, credit/no credit or pass/fail courses.

Southeast Missouri State University has announced its President's List for undergraduate academic achievement during the spring 2026 semester. Students named to the President's List earned a 4.0 grade point average and completed at least 12 hours of standard graded credit.

Southeast Missouri State University graduate James Foote, originally from Arkansas and currently teaching at the university level in China, will earn a Master of Arts in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) this spring. Through SEMO's flexible online program, Foote balanced full-time teaching while strengthening his ability to support students' English language development. He said the program deepened his engagement with TESOL, helped him grow professionally and personally, and prepared him to pursue future opportunities in ESOL curriculum design and higher education.

Isaac Thorn, of O'Fallon, Missouri, will graduate this spring from Southeast Missouri State University with a degree in instrumental music education and begin his career as assistant band director at Wentzville Middle School and Holt High School. During his time at SEMO, Thorn gained hands-on leadership and teaching experience through conducting the Show Band, serving as a student assistant for the SEMO Marching Band and performing at major events, including the 2023 Bands of America exhibition at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

Southeast Missouri State University aviation students recently attended the Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida, one of the nation's premier aviation events, where they gained valuable career development and networking opportunities with industry leaders, recruiters and aviation professionals. Students from Alpha Eta Rho and Women in Aviation explored emerging technologies, attended workshops on maintenance, safety, and leadership and connected with potential employers through career fair events.

Southeast Missouri State University recognized outstanding student leaders, organizations, advisors and mentors during its annual Student Life and Leadership Awards celebration, honoring those who made meaningful contributions to campus life through leadership, service, involvement and experiential learning. Awards included the President's Spirit of Southeast, First Year Student, Civic and Global Engagement, Student Life Achievement, University Contributor, Outstanding Student Organization, Outstanding Student Organization Advisor and Experiential Learning across each academic college. The annual recognition highlights how student leadership, service and hands-on learning prepare graduates to make an impact both on campus and beyond.

Southeast Missouri State University's Redhawk Speech and Debate Team earned national recognition at the National Speech Championship, where students competed against top collegiate speakers from across the country and two advanced to the quarterfinals. Through weekly practices and collaboration, the team continues to build strong communication, reasoning and leadership skills. Coach Noah Smentkowski said tournaments give students the chance to grow, share meaningful topics and build lasting connections, reflecting SEMO's commitment to experience-driven learning and student success.

Southeast Missouri State University recognized outstanding faculty, staff and student mentors during its 2026 Excellence in Advising, Student Success, and Teaching Celebration on April 21. The event honored individuals and departments for excellence in academic advising, teaching, mentorship, research support and student success initiatives, highlighting SEMO's commitment to student learning and career readiness through strong support systems both inside and outside the classroom.

Students in Southeast Missouri State University's Department of Mass Media are garnering recognition for their bold storytelling and real-world media experience, earning top honors at the 2026 Missouri Broadcast Educators Association (MBEA) College Media Competition and 23 honors at the Missouri College Media Association (MCMA) conference.

Southeast Missouri State University's Annual Student Research Conference, held April 14-15 in the University Center Ballroom, brought together undergraduate and graduate students from all colleges to showcase their research through presentations and posters. The event highlighted experience-driven learning, with students like Taylor Myers exploring agricultural education retention and graduate researchers examining hearing screenings for individuals with aphasia. Beyond presenting, participants gained professional skills by engaging with judges and peers. The conference also featured faculty-led keynote and workshops, while recognizing top student presentations across multiple categories.

Southeast Missouri State University's Wind Ensemble recently performed at WindFest, an invitation-only concert held at Cincinnati Music Hall, where select ensembles showcase their talents on a national stage. The experience challenged students while providing valuable performance exposure and professional growth. The trip helped students grow in confidence, musicianship and perspective, reinforcing SEMO's commitment to hands-on learning and meaningful performance opportunities that prepare students for careers in music and education.