Across all schools and programs, 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 and upcoming this year at UMKC.
KC Streetcar UMKC Stop
Getting to campus has never been easier! This is the first fall semester where students can ride the KC Streetcar to Volker Campus. The Union Station stop is also a short walk away from our Health Sciences Campus.
Ridership for the KC Streetcar since the Main Street Extension has grown, showing the UMKC stop as one of the most used on the line.
New Screens on Campus
Things are looking bright on campus. New video boards have been installed at both Durwood Soccer Stadium and the Cherry Street Garage. If you haven't caught a Roo soccer match lately, now is the time. The men's team has earned a national ranking for the third straight year (Top 25), and the new screens make game day even more exciting. You'll also spot the Cherry Street Garage board when traveling along Oak Street.
Ringing in a New But Old Tradition
This 1,100-pound bell, originally gifted to the university by businessman Howard Treadway after he rescued it from a wrecked riverboat, once rang daily between classes at Haag Hall. It has been silent since 1983, but it is being relocated to a more visible spot near Swinney Recreation Center. Students and the surrounding community can look forward to hearing it again when Chancellor Mauli Agrawal rings it during this year's Convocation!
Olson Performing Arts Center Addition
The expansion of the Olsen Performing Arts Center will include a large music ensemble performance and rehearsal space, two dance rehearsal rooms and support spaces for the dance program and a new, accessible black-box performance space to be used by all three Conservatory programs. Current facilities, including White Recital Hall, will also be renovated during this project. The groundbreaking of this project is Sept. 23.
Atterbury Student Success Center Expansion
Beautifully updated, the Atterbury Student Success Center will have its grand opening on Oct. 20. Atterbury will be home to Admissions, Advising, the Center for Transfer Students and Adult Learners, Career Services, University College and International Student and Scholar Services. It will also include an inviting welcome center with a two-story atrium to host prospective students and their families. Pierson Auditorium also has been renovated.
UMKC Roos Basketball Returns to Municipal Auditorium
The Roos are heading back downtown! This season, the UMKC Men's Basketball team will play its entire home schedule at historic Municipal Auditorium. The Women's Basketball team will split home games between Municipal Auditorium and the Swinney Center on Volker Campus. Fans can get an early look during exhibition games on Oct. 24, which also happens to be World Kangaroo Day.
Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building
Set to open in February 2027, the 200,000-square-foot Healthcare Delivery and Innovation Building will house dental clinics, cutting-edge research, medical education and interdisciplinary collaboration in the heart of the UMKC Health Sciences District.
The building, the largest capital project in UMKC history, will include simulation and digital anatomy labs, expanded classroom space and community-focused health programs, making it a vital resource for both student learning and regional healthcare innovation.