Central Speaks: A UCM Podcast

University of Central Missouri (UCM) President Roger Best joins Central Speaks to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping higher education today, and how faculty and staff can help UCM meet this moment in service to students. The conversation centers on what he describes as the “three C’s”: communication, change and community. President Best shares his perspective on the external forces a...

In this episode, Alex Greenwood talks with Vice President for the  Office of Integrated Marketing and Communications,  Susan Smedley, about how IMC supports the University of Central Missouri (UCM) through strategy, storytelling, and service. Susan shares her path from advertising and private industry into higher education, and how that experience shapes her belief in access, opportunity and stude...

In this episode, Dr. Maggie Segnitz , Director of the Success Advising Center at the University of Central Missouri, shares insights into success advising, its role in student achievement, and how it differs from traditional advising. Discover how UCM supports students from undecided majors to graduation and the importance of relationship-building in higher education. Visit the Central Speaks webs...

In this Season Three premiere, host Alex Greenwood talks with "the Great Connector," David Pearce, UCM’s Executive Director for Governmental Relations , about his path from politics to higher education advocacy. David breaks down how relationships drive real progress in Jefferson City, recent legislative wins that matter for UCM, and why civic engagement still counts. Listen in to David...

This episode of Central Speaks   examines the reasons why the University of Central Missouri was recognized in the Warrensburg Star-Journal’s   Best of the  Burg awards . From being a top place to work to Mules National Golf Club and Traditions Restaurant to student services and campus support, UCM earned recognition not just for what we do but also for how we do it. In that vein, we revisit some...

In this special edition of Central Speaks , host Alex Greenwood sits down with Dr. Ann McCoy, Vice Provost of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies and chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, to discuss the University of Central Missouri’s new 2026–2031 Strategic Plan . This isn’t just another document; it’s a roadmap that will guide UCM’s next chapter in academics, student life, staff support...

In this episode, Ed Wirthwein, the director of Community Standards and Support at the University of Central Missouri, shares his journey from being a student at UCM to becoming a vital part of the university's staff, emphasizing the importance of student support, mentorship, and community standards. He discusses his role in helping students navigate challenges, the significance of Greek life in fo...

We're taking a short summer break—but not going silent! Coming in June, tune in for fresh interviews and a special “Best Of” episode featuring highlights from our first season. Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode—and visit us online at https://www.ucmo.edu/news/central-speaks/ . © 2025 University of Central Missouri. All rights reserved. Central Spe...

On this episode of Central Speaks , we sit down with Dr. Dawn Pauling , associate instructor of biology at UCM, whose career has taken her from tracking wildlife in the wilds of Alaska to researching one of the most misunderstood diseases in history—the plague. Dr. Pauling pulls back the curtain on her journey into wildlife disease research, busts a few plague myths and explains why hands-on, curi...

In this episode of Central Speaks , we meet Tiffany Cochran , a UCM alumna and Senior Director of Events and Alumni Engagement. She shares her inspiring journey from scholarship student studying Fashion and Apparel Merchandising to leader in alumni engagement, reflecting on the pivotal role scholarships played in her education, her successful career in retail management, and her transition into hi...

On this episode of Central Speaks, we sit down with Dr. Matt Howdeshell, vice president of Intercollegiate Athletics at UCM , to discuss his background, vision for UCM athletics and the crucial role of community engagement.  We explore the initiatives he has championed to support student-athletes, including enhanced nutrition and mental health services. Dr. Howdeshell also shares insights into his...

This episode of Central Speaks shines a spotlight on Courtney Swoboda, director of UCM's Military and Veterans Services Office and 2024 Higher Ed Military Spotlight Award recipient. Courtney’s decade of service in the Air Force and five years at UCM have shaped her into a transformative leader, redefining military-friendly education through her dedication and innovation. Under her leadership, UCM'...

Welcome to Central Speaks, the podcast that puts the spotlight on the dedicated individuals who propel the ⁠University of Central Missouri⁠ forward. Each episode, we delve into the stories of those who embody UCM’s spirit of innovation and service, showcasing the transformative work that redefines what’s possible on our campus and beyond. Central Speaks is all about hearing directly from UCM’s cha...

Welcome to Central Speaks, the podcast that puts the spotlight on the dedicated individuals who propel the University of Central Missouri forward. Each episode, we delve into the stories of those who embody UCM’s spirit of innovation and service, showcasing the transformative work that redefines what’s possible on our campus and beyond. Central Speaks is all about hearing directly from UCM’s chang...