Governor Parson Signs Budget Increasing Funding for the University of Central Missouri

By Alex Greenwood, July 11, 2024

University of Central Missouri students use technology in the Extended Reality project at the UCM Lee's Summit location within the Missouri Innovation Campus. The UCM Extended Reality project was ranked number one on the state legislature’s MoExcels candidate funding list.

 

University of Central Missouri (UCM) leaders expressed their appreciation for Missouri Governor Mike Parson and state legislators for developing a $51.7 billion Fiscal Year 2025 state budget that allocates a net core appropriation of $64 million to UCM. This represents an increase of nearly $1.9 million in expected revenue to UCM for FY 2025, bringing the University’s overall total operating budget to $178.4 million.

“Support for higher education is critical for creating an enduring, robust economy for Missouri and for enhancing the well-being of all families,” said Roger Best, UCM president. “I am confident that this investment in UCM will yield significant returns for the state. We are grateful for the vision of Governor Parson and the confidence of the Missouri Legislature in supporting UCM’s role in creating and securing a positive future for our state.”

Best noted that the state budget provides UCM with a 3 percent increase in core funding versus the previous fiscal year. Additionally, it includes MoExcels funding for the Extended Reality project at the UCM Lee's Summit location within the Missouri Innovation Campus. MoExcels funding supports the development and expansion of employer-driven education and training programs, significantly boosting educational attainment. The UCM Extended Reality project was ranked number one on the state legislature’s MoExcels candidate funding list.

 

An additional $9.95 million installment of funding for the renovation and modernization of the Humphreys Building on the UCM campus at Warrensburg is part of the state’s Fiscal Year 2025 capital appropriations. This installment, along with prior funding, comprises 100 percent financing by the state of Missouri for the $39.8 million project. The Humphreys Building houses student support services such as the university’s counseling and testing centers, and long-standing academic programs including Criminal Justice and ROTC.

 

Learn more about the UCM Extended Reality project here.