From expanded educational access and modernized facilities to restored cultural treasures and practical improvements, UMKC continues to evolve in ways that matter. Whether you're returning to campus or arriving for the first time, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a Roo. Here’s a look at what’s new this year at UMKC.
Virtual Parking System Now in Effect
UMKC is modernizing campus mobility with a new virtual parking system, officially launched in August. Students and staff can now manage parking permits entirely online, eliminating the need for physical tags or stickers. This user-friendly system streamlines the parking experience and improves campus accessibility. It’s part of a broader shift toward sustainability and tech-driven convenience at UMKC.
UMKC School of Medicine Expands to St. Joseph
The UMKC School of Medicine has officially opened its doors in St. Joseph, Missouri. Having trained rural healthcare providers since 2021, this new physical location embodies the university’s commitment to increasing access to medical education and healthcare in underserved areas. The expansion is aimed at addressing regional healthcare needs and training the next generation of medical professionals closer to the communities they’ll serve, reaffirming UMKC’s mission to improve lives across Missouri and beyond.
Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative Boosts Academic Success
Students can now access the Victor Wilson Learning Collaborative. This state-of-the-art academic resource center is on the 4th floor of Miller Nichols Library and is designed to uplift student achievement. The revamped space is now home to all student success services, like First Generation Roos, Professional Career Escalators, Academic Support and Mentoring and Supplemental Instruction. It includes expanded study areas, cutting-edge technology and a more open and inclusive layout that encourages collaboration.
Roo Plaza Opens as a Student-Centered Hub
Roo Plaza, a new outdoor gathering space at the heart of the Volker Campus, is officially open. This vibrant plaza features shaded seating areas, outdoor study zones and green spaces designed with students in mind. More than just a place to relax between classes, Roo Plaza enhances the social and cultural fabric of the campus perfect for student events, performances or just a casual meet-up with friends. The plaza represents a growing investment in making UMKC a destination where students can thrive both academically and socially.
Jump Into UMKC
Designed exclusively for incoming undergraduates, Jump Into UMKC is a premiere multi-day onboarding experience crafted to welcome our newest Roos and support their transition to campus life. This program offers early access to move in for on campus residents, engaging workshops on time management, career readiness, technology use and confidence-building, plus fun social activities that introduce students to peers, faculty and Kansas City.
Haag Hall Murals Restored to Their Original Glory
The historic murals in Haag Hall have been fully restored, thanks to generous funding from the KC Monuments Coalition through a Mellon Foundation grant awarded to the UMKC School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The murals, painted by Spanish artist Luis Quintanilla in 1940, are significant both artistically and historically. They depict scenes from Don Quixote and include the name of Spanish Civil War fighter Julián Zugazagoitia, grandfather of Julián Zugazagoitia, the current director of The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. The restoration not only revives these treasured works but also brings attention to UMKC’s place in international artistic and political history. It is currently the only KC Monuments Coalition project on a UMKC campus.