Joseph Lightner from the UMKC School of Nursing and Health Studies will study how zero-fare transit systems influence health outcomes across urban ...
For Lightner, experiencing and understanding different cultures is important to him, not only as a person, but as a researcher as well. Getting out of his own social context broadens what he can learn. Over the next year, he’ll be in Brazil for three months, then Puerto Rico, back to the United States and then off to South Africa for another research project.
“I think the United States has a lot to learn from other countries,” Lightner said. “What are those things that really make a population healthy? How are those things health protective? And then, how do we create interventions in the United States that can mimic the mechanism of change in other places?”
The impetus for the Fulbright project began when Lightner was invited to speak at a zero-fare conference in Rio de Janeiro. His talk piqued the interest of researchers at the Rio de Janeiro State University. The group immediately began strategizing on how they could work together. That’s when the Fulbright award came about.
The goal of the project is to understand what impact zero-fare policies will have on physical activity, overall health and ancillary things like grocery store trips or doctor visits. Lightner will travel to Brazil in August to begin the study. The team will collect data from six urban cities in Brazil, three cities with zero fare and three that do not.
Lightner is eager to learn more about Brazil’s unique bus system and how it compares to Kansas City and beyond. According to Lightner, bus systems in the United States are operated by the government, where drivers are essentially public employees. In Brazil, the bus system is a public-private partnership, where individual companies run a city’s bus system, funded by a tax on employers.
“I’m astonished by the fact that they can have this public-private partnership where it looks and feels very much like the United States, but it works so much better,” Lightner said. “What can the United States and Kansas City learn from these environments where so many people are taking transit and walking more?”
According to Lightner, transportation adoption is high in Brazil compared to the United States where about 1% of trips are made on public transportation. Whereas in Brazil, it’s anywhere between 20% to 50%. Because of that, zero fare can make a huge impact. Brazil has the largest zero-fare transit system in the world. It has about 220 million people, and about 150 mid-sized cities in the country have zero fare.
The research team is hoping to recruit about 600 people, connecting with them through community centers, health departments and municipal city halls. Once the study begins, each participant will receive a research-grade accelerometer – similar to a smart watch but waist mounted and more accurate – and a GPS tracker. Each week, participants will return their accelerometers and GPS trackers, which the team will pull the data from. Then participants will get a new set of trackers and come back in a week. Brazil has a national healthcare system with extensive electronic records so it will be simple for the team to gather information like number of doctor visits and overall health indicators like blood pressure.
The other members of the research team at Rio de Janeiro State University are excited about the opportunity to collaborate. For Magno Garcia, Ph.D., the project will be part of his post-doctoral fellowship. Lightner is already helping him improve as a researcher, emphasizing the viewpoint of study participants and how that affects their behavior.
“Lightner is a good researcher to learn from because of his creativity and how he motivates,” Garcia said. “He provides opportunities to improve my knowledge and help me understand the best way to assess things. I’m so thankful for him.”
On the project, Garcia will mainly be collecting and organizing the data for the project. He’s hopeful that with good data from his community, he can better understand behavior and create innovative policy to encourage physical activity for Brazilians.
According to Jamie Hunt, faculty member in the Department of Health Sciences, Lightner's work demonstrates how innovative research can address real-world challenges and improve lives.
“Lightner’s pioneering research on equitable transportation policy has already influenced national conversations,” Hunt said. “His Fulbright work in Brazil will further advance global understanding of how transportation systems can promote health, opportunity and social equity”.
For Hunt, the Fulbright project reflects Lightner’s commitment to advancing equitable, community-centered solutions on a global scale.
“We are proud to support him as a scholar, collaborator and ambassador for both UMKC and the Fulbright mission,” Hunt said.
Lightner has been studying zero fare since 2021, where he researched Kansas City’s switch to zero fare. His team found that ridership increased as well as physical activity. The research found that people were meeting their daily recommendation for physical activity just walking to and from the bus stop.
The framework for the project in Brazil is built on the work Lightner and his team performed in Kansas City. He’s excited to see how the research in Brazil will affect change in Kansas City. The work is important to Lightner because he said bus riders are a traditionally marginalized population where there are systemic issues limiting their ability to have good health.
“Built environments play a really important role in physical activity,” Lightner said. “In many developed countries like the United States, if you don’t have a sidewalk or a trail to walk, you’re less likely to be active. It’s been great seeing people in environments that aren’t really designed for physical activity still find a way to be active.”
Jun 30, 2026
A night celebrating Kansas City’s global moment
The UMKC Family Soccer Fest brought many community members, alumni, students and soccer fans to campus for an evening celebrating Kansas City’s rich soccer culture. With strong attendance and activities for all ages, the event created a festive atmosphere that showcased UMKC’s role in the Soccer Capital of America.
Guests enjoyed a variety of interactive activities throughout the evening. Including inflatables, lawn games, face painting and soccer-themed challenges. Hydration and misting stations helped attendees stay cool during the summer night while families explored Roo Plaza and connected with local soccer organizations and the university’s Kansas City Roos men’s and women’s soccer teams. The highlight on the field was a series of exciting 3 vs. 3 matches that kept players and spectators engaged throughout the event.
The festival also featured appearances from both of the university’s soccer partners, the Kansas City Current and Sporting Kansas City, giving fans an opportunity to connect with two of the region’s premier professional clubs. Local entrepreneur and Bloch School alumna Lesly Romo (B.B.A. ’25) and her business, Golazo, were among the community partners helping bring the celebration to life, adding to the event’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere with plenty of soccer experience activities. Food trucks kept attendees fueled throughout the evening and contributed to the festival’s neighborhood feel.
As the sun set, attention shifted to Durwood Soccer Stadium for a watch party of the Algeria vs. Austria game on the new screen that delivered plenty of excitement. Fans sat on the field and cheered through the match, creating an electric atmosphere that capped off a memorable night.
Jun 29, 2026
First Gen Roo and recent UMKC graduate Sharae Shaheed (B.A. ’25) took the trip of a lifetime while balancing school, work and being a single mother
At UMKC, students like Sharae Shaheed (B.A. ’25) are redefining what success looks like and proving it’s never too late to expand your world.
Shaheed is a first-generation college student, mother and recent Spanish graduate who discovered study abroad isn’t just for traditional students; it’s for anyone ready to say yes to opportunity.
Why did you choose to study Spanish?
Spanish has been something I’ve been drawn to since I was a teenager. Growing up in California, I was surrounded by the language and culture. It always stayed with me.
I didn’t pursue it right away, but eventually I realized I needed to go back to what I was genuinely passionate about. Studying Spanish felt like stepping into something that was always meant for me.
And then you got the opportunity to study abroad in Spain?
I almost didn’t go. Between finances, responsibilities and being a parent, it felt like too much.
But support made the difference: scholarships, university resources and encouragement from my family. The turning point was my son telling me, “There’s no way you’re not going to Spain.” That gave me the confidence to fully commit to the experience.
Tell us more about those resources.
Financial Aid played a huge role. That funding helped make study abroad possible.
The advisors and faculty who took the time to understand my situation and help me navigate a path forward were also important. That level of support makes a real difference, especially for students balancing multiple responsibilities.
How was the experience when you finally got to Spain?
It was incredible and a bit overwhelming in the best way. Being immersed in Spain’s history and culture was something you can’t replicate in a classroom. One of the most rewarding parts was finally feeling like I was learning Spanish at the right level. Everything clicked in a way it hadn’t before.
It also felt surprisingly familiar. The environment, public transportation and pace of life reminded me of where I grew up. It felt like everything came full circle.
How else did studying abroad impact you beyond the classroom?
It gave me space to mentally and physically reset.
I’ve spent years in survival mode, and this was the first time I could truly step back and focus on myself. Even something as simple as walking every day had a major impact on my health.
It was a reminder that education isn’t just academic. It’s personal growth, too.
What would you say to other non-traditional students considering study abroad?
Don’t count yourself out. Your journey might look different, and you may have to plan around more responsibilities. That doesn’t mean the opportunity isn’t for you. If you’re willing to take the step, it can change your perspective in ways you never imagined.
Jun 25, 2026
A University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine student has been recognized for her leadership, service and impact by the University of Mis...
Sarah George, a B.A./M.D. student minoring in chemistry, is one of seven recipients of the 2026 Remington R. Williams Award and the only student selected from UMKC this year. The award honors exceptional student leaders who demonstrate outstanding character, collaboration and meaningful contributions both inside and outside the classroom.
Named in memory of Remington Williams, a former UMKC student representative to the UM Board of Curators, the award is one of the UM System’s highest non-academic honors, celebrating students who embody compassion, leadership and dedication to student success. Each recipient receives $1,000 and a student-designed medal to wear at commencement.
George has distinguished herself through extensive leadership and advocacy work. She serves as president of several organizations including Days for Girls, the OB/GYN Interest Group and the American Medical Women’s Association at UMKC, focusing on menstrual health equity, mentorship and advancing women’s healthcare education.
Here’s an excerpt from the UMKC School of Medicine letter nominating George: "As the Founder and President of the Days for Girls chapter at UMKC, she established the university’s first medical-student–led chapter of a global nonprofit dedicated to menstrual health access and education. Under her leadership, students mobilized to assemble and distribute hygiene kits, conduct campuswide education initiatives and partner with local shelters and nonprofits to address period poverty. This work not only embodies the university’s mission of service and engagement but has also helped destigmatize women’s health issues within both academic and underserved communities."
The Remington award recognizes George’s leadership and advocacy efforts, particularly her work advancing women’s health and addressing gaps in care, which has been especially significant for George.
“This recognition is deeply meaningful to me, especially in the context of my work in menstrual health equity and women’s healthcare advocacy,” George said. “I am honored to be part of a system that elevates this kind of work and I remain committed to using every platform I have to expand access, advance equity and ensure dignity in healthcare for all patients.”
Victoria Garrett, education team coordinator for the School of Medicine, noted in her nomination letter that George’s leadership in several student organizations has impacted both these causes she works on and the students she works alongside.
“Through this work, she has championed menstrual equity, mentorship, women's health education and inclusive leadership,” Garrett said. “She advocates for a holistic college and professional school experience that brings together academics, service and community engagement."
George said that leadership has been important to her because it has allowed her to turn service into meaningful action for both patients and fellow medical students.
“I have taken on roles that strengthen the student experience, foster collaboration among peers and extend advocacy in women’s health beyond the classroom,” George said. “Through these experiences, I have learned that leadership is not defined by position alone, but by consistent action, accountability and a commitment to serving others within and beyond medicine."
Garrett also mentioned in her nomination letter George’s natural leadership skills while providing mentorship to her peers.
"One of Sarah's most striking strengths is her leadership which involves her commitment to mentoring and student engagement,” Garrett said. “She is deeply organized, dependable and generous with her time, frequently offering support to peers navigating the demands of medical school. Students are drawn to Sarah not only because of her experience, but because of her kindness and approachability. She listens attentively, offers thoughtful guidance and models collaboration in every interaction."
Faculty mentors also praised her collaborative approach to research and learning.
“Sarah is one of the brightest and most collaborative researchers I’ve had in my lab,” said Gary Sutkin, vice chair of education for obstetrics and gynecology. “We conduct our research in inter-disciplinary teams. Sarah is both an active listener and frequent contributor. Her intellectual curiosity is infectious, and she is the first to volunteer for tasks while involving other students in our lab.”
Award recipients are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students and are selected for their lasting impact across the UM System. George’s recognition reflects both her leadership at UMKC and her commitment to advancing equitable healthcare and student success.
“I also feel deeply grateful for my faculty mentors who have supported and nominated me, and I recognize that I would not be in this position without their guidance, encouragement and investment in my growth."
Jun 25, 2026
Through an immersive and accessible new program in Québec City, students gained global perspective, confidence and experiences they’ll never forget
For some, taking a trip is the hallmark of summer. But this year, a group of UMKC students turned that tradition into something that was, for some, entirely new — getting a stamp on their passport.
The group just returned from the first-ever UMKC Study Abroad and Global Engagement–led trip to Québec City, Canada. For many of the students, it wasn’t just their first time participating in a study abroad program, it was their first time leaving the United States, navigating international travel and seeing themselves in a global context.Students immersed themselves in French-speaking culture through a guided walking tour of Old Québec, a French cooking course, a maple syrup experience, a national park hike and a circus school experience. The group was housed at Université Laval, one of Canada's top research universities, and supported every step of the way by UMKC's Study Abroad and Global Engagement office in partnership with First Generation Student Programs.
Katelyn Kays
Katelyn Kays is a dual major in English and Criminal Justice and Criminology and part of the First Gen Roo program. She said she had always been intrigued by Canada, and this trip was the perfect balance of different and familiar for her first trip abroad. “I learned a lot about Canadian culture and gained a better understanding of how Canada's government works,” said Kays. “The trip also helped me become more confident in stepping outside my comfort zone, trying new things and embracing opportunities I might have been hesitant to pursue before.”Gaining that comfort was exactly the point, said Associate Director of Study Abroad Ryan Ourada.
From left to right: Andrea Valenzuela, Karina Galeas, Isabel Muziva
Even though the trip was open to all students, it was designed with first-time international travelers in mind. UMKC Director of International Affairs Mark Daly wanted to organize a trip that was accessible, both logistically and financially, to give students a taste of going on an international trip while building their confidence in stepping outside their normal routine. Quebec City, Ourada said, was the perfect fit.
From left to right: Noah Wilson, Andrew Carr, Ryan Nolan
"Québec City has a very unique culture compared to anywhere else in North America,” Ourada said. “It is very similar to actually going to France, the way the city is designed, the food, the arts, but is a much cheaper location to fly to because it is not as far as France. It's only a short plane ride to get there and you don't need a visa.”“I was a little nervous beforehand, but it turned out to be an amazing experience and I'm so glad I decided to go,” Kays said. “The trip pushed me outside of my comfort zone in the best way possible and gave me memories that I'll carry with me for years to come.”
From left to right: Andrew Carr, Ryan Nolan, Katelyn Kays, Grace Allen
With an all-in, low cost of $1,600 including flights, housing, transportation and activities, the program made international travel realistic for students who might not otherwise consider it. “There are many resources, scholarships and support systems available on campus to help make these opportunities accessible,” said Karina Galeas, a communications student who went on the trip. “Studying abroad is a unique experience that allows you to grow personally and academically, and it is something I believe everyone should experience at least once.”One thing that was important for the Study Abroad team was to be sure to include first-generation students, who generally opt out of study abroad experiences at higher rates than other students. Accounting major Carlos Mata was one of the First Gen Roo students who went on the trip.“I think trips like this are important for first-gen students because they give us the chance to experience something we may not have imagined for ourselves before,” Mata said. “For many of us, traveling outside of the country, or studying abroad, can feel out of reach, so having opportunities like this helps make it feel more possible. Being able to travel, explore a new place and learn outside of the classroom can really open your perspective.”
From left to right: Ana Lagares, Andrea Valenzuela, Karina Galeas, Katelyn Kays
While students certainly had fun, the impact of expanding study abroad goes beyond having a good time. Study abroad participation is linked to higher graduation rates, stronger academic performance and improved career outcomes. “Navigating an unfamiliar environment, especially one with a different language, builds self-efficacy in ways that are hard to replicate in a classroom,” Ourada said.
From left to right: Ryan Ourada, Natalie Gilkison Brooks
Noah Wilson, a graduate student studying business data analytics, has traveled abroad before, but he said this trip reinforced how valuable it is to step outside routine. “It helped me appreciate different ways of life and showed how travel builds leadership, communication and teamwork skills in ways you can’t get in a classroom,” he said.“I think experiences like this allow you to learn from others and bring back ideas that can positively influence your own daily life,” said Andrea Valenzuela. For any student thinking about signing on for the next trip, traveler Ana Lagares has just one piece of advice — do it. “Exploring a foreign country as a young, first-gen college student is more important that I had ever realized,” Lagares said. “You will experience so many things that, in the end, cultivate into a massive learning experience that stays with you forever.” Planning is already underway for 2027, with SAGE exploring additional short-term programs designed to expand access and opportunity. If you’re interested in studying abroad, reach out to the Study Abroad and Global Engagement Office.
Jun 18, 2026
Karima Burns and Emma King-Murphy recognized among best law students in the country
Two University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law students were named Academic All-Americans by the National Association of Legal Advocacy Educators (NALAE), recognizing their excellence in academics, competition, service and leadership. Karima Burns (J.D. ’26) was named an Academic All-American Trial Advocate and Emma King-Murphy (J.D. ’26) was named an Academic All-American Appellate Advocate.
Burns and King-Murphy are two of only 29 law students across the country who earned this honor, and the only students selected from a Missouri law school.
Burns credits this honor to her mentors and peers, especially those in the advocacy program.
“The advocacy program at UMKC is truly special, and I owe a great deal of this recognition to the mentorship of the faculty and the support of my mock trial teammates,” Burns said. “The program is incredibly practical and prepares students for real courtrooms. Everyone involved in the advocacy program deserves tremendous recognition and respect, they are exceptional trial lawyers, mentors and educators.”
The NALAE’s national selection committee evaluates candidates across three criteria: academic performance; competition achievement in trial advocacy, appellate advocacy or dispute resolution; and leadership and service within their law school and community.
Burns was part of the 2026 UMKC Law national championship mock trial team and earned Best Advocate of the competition. Burns said she tried to show a commitment to advocacy in throughout law school, and earned a place on the Dean’s List every semester.
“Karima is an exceptional competitor on any team she is a member of, but her passion for advocacy goes beyond competitions,” said L. Michaelle Tobin, professor of law and director of the mock trial program at UMKC School of Law. “She is a student who understands that advocacy matters because it affects real people.”
King-Murphy was a competitor in the 76th Annual National Moot Court competition. She has a published comment in the UMKC Law Review, “The Hidden Secret of Religions: Perpetrators of Adult Abuse Escape Justice” and was a staff writer for the journal. She earned a place on the Dean’s List every semester and graduated third in her class.
“Emma was one of our legal-writing teaching assistants; combining that with her academic curiosity made her one of the best brief writers I’ve worked with,” said Steve Leben, associate dean and professor at the UMKC School of Law. “One of Emma’s special qualities is that she is always ready to help others — even when she’s busy. While preparing for our regional and national competitions, she helped second-year students prepare for their first oral arguments by giving them practice rounds with her as a judge. That kind of generosity takes time and dedication.”
The UMKC School of Law advocacy program is nationally recognized, earning the No. 21 spot on the 2026 U.S. News and World Report rankings for best law schools and programs. In 2024, the mock trial program was ranked No. 11 in the country. In addition to the 2026 national champion mock trial team, a UMKC Law team won the inaugural National Military Trial Competition in 2025.
Jun 17, 2026
UMKC is among the top third of universities globally and its School of Medicine programs rank among the best in the world
U.S. News & World Report has recognized the University of Missouri-Kansas City among the world's top universities in its 2026-2027 Best Global Universities rankings. Out of more than 2,250 institutions across more than 100 countries, UMKC earned a national ranking of No. 145 and overall global ranking of No. 727.
UMKC is ranked in the top third of universities globally. Of the 289 U.S. universities in the rankings, UMKC is one of only four Missouri public universities recognized among the world's best universities, including the University of Missouri, Missouri University of Science and Technology and the University of Missouri-St. Louis.
Among those Missouri public universities, UMKC ranked No. 2 in the state.
Among all 197 public U.S. universities included in the rankings, UMKC earned the No. 98 spot.
"UMKC earning recognition among the world's best universities is a testament to the excellence of our research enterprise and the dedication of our faculty, staff and students," said Chancellor Mauli Agrawal. "This achievement reflects the momentum we are building as Kansas City's only Carnegie Research 1 university and affirms our commitment to advancing discovery, innovation and student success while serving Kansas City and communities around the world."
The UMKC School of Medicine also earned strong subject-specific rankings, including No. 18 nationally and No. 50 globally in Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems, as well as No. 98 nationally and No. 482 globally in Clinical Medicine.
In Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems, the UMKC School of Medicine ranked No. 1 among all Missouri and Kansas universities.
In Clinical Medicine, the UMKC School of Medicine ranked No. 1 among public Missouri universities.
"The UMKC School of Medicine is exceptionally proud of this truly appreciated recognition and honor," said Dean Alexander Norbash, M.D., M.S., FACR. "As the flagship six-year BA/MD school, we are proud of our Cardiac, Cardiac Vascular and Clinical Medicine divisions and see their recognition as a reflection of the remarkable work our school is doing."
This marks the second time in 2026 that UMKC has received global recognition for its research and reputation excellence.
Earlier this year, TIME magazine named UMKC among the world's top universities in its inaugural global rankings. UMKC was one of only two public universities in Missouri included among the 500 institutions recognized.
In the U.S. News & World Report global rankings, universities achieving an overall ranking in the top 50% worldwide receive "Best" status, a distinction awarded to 1,125 institutions this year.
The Best Global Universities methodology, powered by data and metrics from Clarivate, evaluates institutions based on factors measuring research reputation and academic research performance, affirming UMKC’s standing as a leading public research university.
Jun 16, 2026
A $730,000 multi-university initiative is helping researchers rethink how food is produced and delivered to improve access to fresh produce across ...
Do you know where your food comes from? In the Midwest, fresh produce often travels more than 1,500 miles before reaching the table. At the University of Missouri-Kansas City, a student-staff duo is working to make produce more accessible through a certification program in controlled-environment agriculture.
Despite Missouri ranking third in the nation for number of farms, food insecurity remains widespread. One in six Missourians experience food insecurity, including more than 248,000 children, according to Feeding America.
A 2023 United Way of Greater Kansas City report found more than 180,000 people in the metro area face food insecurity, with the highest rates in Wyandotte, Clay and Jackson counties.
So why does high agricultural production not translate into equitable food access?
In her report presented at Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol, Jackie Gildo, a junior studying business administration with an emphasis in nonprofit management, wrote:
“Fresh produce often travels more than 1,500 miles before reaching a Missouri dinner table. Local communities still depend on long-distance distribution systems that increase food waste, raise costs and reduce freshness by the time produce reaches communities.”
At UMKC, Gildo and her mentor are building a solution.
What started as a single hydroponic growing system on the second floor of Flarsheim Hall has transformed into a $733,000 USDA-NIFA-funded initiative to develop a controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) certification program.
The program is a collaboration among UMKC, the University of Missouri, Kansas State University and Kansas State University Olathe. Students across campuses can take online coursework with in-person lab components.
At UMKC, the certification is housed in the department of Earth and Environmental Science in the School of Science and Engineering.
Leading the effort is Angela Cottrell, Ed.D., director of research and institutional programs at UMKC.
Cottrell’s path to CEA began with her work in grant writing. That role introduced her to workforce and food systems research.
“It’s personally important for me to understand where my food comes from,” Cottrell said. “My entire family are type 2 diabetics. The pandemic really hit home the realities of food supply chain gaps.”
Gildo discovered undergraduate research during UMKC Welcome Week and applied to work with Cottrell. She began by helping build the hydroponic lettuce growing system.
“Hydroponic growing systems allow crops to be produced in compact indoor spaces, making year-round production possible even in urban areas,” Gildo said. “We are pioneering this framework to show there is a viable, feasible solution for our community's food needs.”
Since its first harvest in April 2024, the system has produced 183.75 pounds of lettuce, all donated to the Kangaroo Pantry at the Dr. Raj Bala Agrawal CARE Center.
The produce goes from harvest to pantry in about two hours, significantly reducing spoilage and preserving freshness.
Cottrell described it as some of the freshest lettuce available.
Gildo also surveyed Kangaroo Pantry users to understand campus food needs. Fresh fruits and vegetables were the top request with 31% of students selecting them.
Now, Gildo and Cottrell are helping expand the CEA certification program, aiming to enroll at least 20 students from each participating university this fall.
Cottrell said student interest was strong: 89% of UMKC students expressed interest in a lab or greenhouse where they can participate in growing crops, and 53% said they would participate in a CEA program.
Gildo is also contributing through marketing and outreach efforts tied to her business education at the Henry W. Bloch School of Management.
“As a business student, being able to take a slice of her work and build on it feels empowering,” Gildo said. “Angie is really the reason why I keep coming back. She lets me be creative, explore my own ideas and connects me to opportunities I wouldn’t have found on my own. She’s always thinking about ways to set me up for success. She’s a great mentor who believes in my potential, and having someone believe in you really changes the way you go about your future; it helps me stay engaged in my studies."
Gildo describes the project as both hands-on and scalable.
“This is just a six-by-six footprint,” she said. “But nearly 200 pounds of lettuce from something this small shows how it can scale into something much bigger.”
After presenting her work at Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol, Gildo received external recognition, including resolutions from Missouri lawmakers.
“I got two official resolutions, one from Senator Patty Lewis and one from Representative Melissa Douglas,” Gildo said. “It was very gratifying to see my research officially recognized at a state level. I don't think anything will ever beat that.”
For Gildo and Cottrell, the goal is not just producing lettuce but building a new model for Missouri agriculture that connects food production, education and access.
As Gildo wrote in her research, “Establishing a new model for Missouri agriculture will help advance year-round production to strengthen regional food access, applied research and workforce development.”
The undergraduate certificate in Controlled Environement Agriculture may only be awarded in conjunction with a UMKC undergraduate degree. Students interested in enrolling should contact Angela Cottrell, the IDEA Coordinator, prior to enrollment.
Learn more about the undergraduate CEA certificate at UMKC.
Jun 15, 2026
The one-of-a-kind listening experience presents three shows
When you walk into the Sound Mandala, you’re greeted by speakers on all sides. The lights will dim, and you’ll hear music and audio like never before. The experience will surround you with sound in motion, in a way that can’t be replicated anywhere else.
The Sound Mandala will be at the Unicorn Theatre in Kansas City June 10 to August 1, with three distinct shows. “Signal&Soul” is a variety show with 10-12 pieces, featuring works by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Anton Chekhov, Krizz Kaliko and more. “Indie Spotlight” features works by five indie bands. “The Cabinet of Doctor Caligari,” released in 1920, is an early silent horror film that’s been given a new score to bring it to life in new ways. Click here to learn more about each show and get tickets.
Tom Mardikes, professor of sound design at the UMKC Conservatory, is the creator of the Sound Mandala. Inspired by intricately crafted sand mandalas, Mardikes wanted to apply that precision and artistry to sound. He created a system to place individual sounds of a track on different speakers and move those sounds throughout the duration of the track. Much like movies are moving images, the Sound Mandala is moving audio.
“When you listen to a recorded track, the sounds have been mixed already and you’re hearing it all come out of one console,” Mardikes said. “I wanted to know how a song would sound if it was mixed in the air, as you listen to it.”
Mardikes retires from UMKC in August 2026 after 45 years at the university as a professor of sound design. He has been working on the Sound Mandala since 2014. Graduate students in sound design at UMKC have been involved in the process, including his core Sound Mandala team of current and former students. Mardikes holds a patent for the system and foresees its use in theatres, auditoriums and even haunted houses in the future.
The Sound Mandala has progressed to 100 independent speakers. Mardikes’s team outfitted the theatre to ensure the best audio experience possible to showcase their creation. The intimate venue at Unicorn Theatre holds 40 people, ensuring that every seat is the best seat in the house.
“You can hear sounds moving around the room,” Mardikes said. “You might hear a guitar coming from in front of you, a voice behind you and a piano next to you. You’re truly immersed in the sound, it’s an entirely unique experience that’s never been possible before.”
Experience a taste of the Sound Mandala. Headphones are required for listening.
Jun 15, 2026
Ph.D. students Lyza Iamrache and Said Tabharit are excited to welcome visitors from Algeria to Kansas City as the World Cup arrives
Two UMKC international students will get a rare and powerful connection to home this summer, as Kansas City hosts the FIFA World Cup and Team Algeria takes the field just miles away from campus.
For Lyza Iamrache and Said Tabharit, both Ph.D. students in statistics, the 2026 World Cup is more than a global sporting event. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment where their academic journeys and national pride intersect.“I never expected in my life to attend a World Cup, and then to have Algeria come here to Kansas City,” Tabharit said. “This is really exciting.”Both students began their journeys in Algiers, Algeria, at the University of Science and Technology, but their paths didn’t cross until they were recruited to UMKC. Professor Kamel Rekab, Ph.D., sought out talented students with strong mathematics backgrounds and reached out directly to universities in Algeria.“When I was looking for good graduate students, I contacted the University of Science and Technology in Algeria,” Rekab said. “Both of them are very hardworking.”Though they didn’t know each other before applying, Iamrache and Tabharit connected during the admissions process. Iamrache arrived in Kansas City first in Fall 2023, navigating a new country, culture and academic system on her own.“It was hard at the beginning,” she said. “The system in Algeria is very different.”So when Tabharit arrived the following semester, his presence meant more than just a familiar name.“I was missing Algeria,” Iamrache said. “Then he came. I was so happy he was here!”Together, they built community, both with each other and beyond. Rekab helped introduce them to a small, but close-knit, Algerian network in Kansas City, where they gather for barbecues, soccer and shared traditions.“It’s not a big community, but we have each other,” Tabharit said.At UMKC, both students have excelled academically. Iamrache is the first author on a published journal article focused on estimating the risk of epidemic spread, while Tabharit is a co-author on similar work, an achievement Rekab highlights as exceptional for early-career researchers. “That’s a very good result,” Rekab said.Outside of the classroom, they’ve embraced Kansas City. Iamrache spends weekends exploring museums and local attractions, and both are fans of the parks in the area.“I love the city,” Tabharit said. “It’s quiet, people are friendly, you feel welcomed. It’s an amazing city.”That balance between global diversity and Midwestern hospitality is part of what makes this World Cup moment so meaningful. Both students are eager to share their culture with American friends and visitors who may not know much about Algeria.“I don’t think Americans know a lot about Algeria,” Tabharit said. “This is an opportunity to share our culture.”Iamrache is already making plans. A lifelong soccer fan who dreamed of going to a World Cup, Iamrache could have never guessed she’d get to see her home country compete in her college town. But she scored a ticket to see Algeria face Austria, a matchup that carries historic weight. In 1982, a controversial match between Austria and West Germany eliminated Algeria from the World Cup. Now, decades later, the Algerians will come head-to-head with one of the teams that denied them their shot all those decades ago. “It’s like a revenge game,” Rekab said, who is also going to the match.Even for matches they won’t attend in person, the students plan to join watch parties, fan festivals and gatherings with friends from across the U.S. and beyond. Iamrache has already connected with fellow fans traveling from Chicago and Ohio, many of whom she met through online groups.“There are a lot of Algerians coming,” she said.For Iamrache, Tabharit and Rekab, the World Cup represents something far larger than soccer. It’s about connection to home, to each other and to a global community converging in the place they now call their second home.“They’re going to wake up at 2 a.m. in Algeria to watch these games,” Rekab said.And here in Kansas City, thousands of miles away, two UMKC students will be cheering alongside them with Team Algeria’s team chant, “One, two, three — Viva l’Algérie!”
Jun 15, 2026
Change enhances university’s impact on health services, policy and community outcomes across the nation
The UMKC Collaborative Center to Advance Health Services has joined the UMKC Institute of Human Development.
The move brings together two established teams to better align their work and strengthen their collective impact. The transition reflects a strategic realignment within the university to enhance administrative support, streamline operations and expand opportunities for research and community engagement. "To elevate UMKC’s research enterprise, we must align our most impactful assets to operate with maximum agility,” said Sumeet Dua, vice chancellor for research and innovation. “Housing these complementary strengths within the Institute for Human Development creates a cohesive research powerhouse. It streamlines how we empower our investigators, accelerates our portfolio growth and ensures our research delivers transformative, scalable solutions to the communities we serve."The UMKC Institute of Human Development was founded in 1977 and is a major contributor to research at the university. Its work focuses on research and evaluation, providing professional development, training and technical assistance and advancing systems change at the local, state and federal level to improve the lives of people across the lifespan. Its portfolio of work spans physical and developmental disabilities, aging and disability, maternal, childhood, and early childhood and education systems. It is federally designated as Missouri’s University Center on Excellence in Developmental Disabilities.The UMKC Collaborative Center to Advance Health Services brings a similarly strong portfolio of work focused on improving health systems and outcomes through research, professional development and community partnerships. Its principal investigators lead federally and state-funded initiatives in areas such as behavioral health, substance use and reproductive health, while also providing national training and technical assistance to professionals in these fields. The integration will enhance efficiency, reduce administrative burden and create new opportunities for collaboration across disciplines and funding streams.“We all serve the same population, so we are stronger together,” said Michelle Reynolds, senior associate director for the UMKC Institute for Human Development. “I foresee in the next year or two where we'll really be able to jointly write new initiatives and leverage each other's work.”This alignment strengthens UMKC’s ability to support high-impact research, foster cross-sector collaboration and drive lasting improvements in health systems and community outcomes.
Jun 12, 2026
From innovative vaccine delivery technology to reimagining community through contemporary music, this year’s top graduate award winners showcase th...
The University of Missouri–Kansas City has announced the winners of its highest graduate research honors: the UMKC Outstanding Dissertation Award and Distinguished Thesis Award.
This year’s Outstanding Dissertation Award was presented to Md. Reaid Hasan (CIPh.D. '25), who earned his Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chemistry. The Distinguished Thesis Award was presented to Emily Trapani (M.M. '25), who completed her Master of Music in Musicology. Christine Getz, Ph.D., dean of the School of Graduate Studies, said the scholars in this year’s competition exemplified the innovation, curiosity and impact that define graduate research at UMKC. “Research and creative work are essential to advancing scientific discovery and enriching society,” Getz said. “We are proud to celebrate Reaid and Emily for their extraordinary accomplishments and the meaningful impact their work has had in their disciplines and on the community.”Hasan’s award-winning dissertation could transform how vaccines and therapeutics are administered and dramatically reduce waste. He developed a biodegradable microneedle to deliver vaccines that reduces pain and eliminates hazardous sharp waste.A key breakthrough in Hasan’s research is his team’s development of an emulsion-based, light-curable formulation that significantly increases drug loading while allowing microneedles to be formed quickly using visible light rather than harmful UV exposure. Hasan said the microneedle patch also could reduce reliance on cold-chain storage, enabling vaccines to remain stable at room temperature and expanding access in areas without advanced infrastructure. In addition to improving efficiency, Hasan’s innovation could also open the door to broader applications to reduce UV exposure, from curing dental fillings to curing nail polish. Another key benefit is reducing waste. Rather than a single-use needle being discarded into a landfill, Hasan’s microneedle degrades into the skin. Hasan credits his advisor, Kun Cheng, Ph.D, Sperry Family Fund endowed chair in geriatric pharmaceutical research and Curators' Distinguished Professor, with guiding him toward the right questions and supporting him throughout his research.“He is a really inspiring person,” Hasan said. “Looking at him pushed me a lot to achieve.” While his invention has been proven with a model, the next step will be testing with a live vaccine and examining any potential byproducts of the microneedle. Hasan’s dissertation will be nominated for this year’s Distinguished Dissertation Award, a national competition sponsored by the Council of Graduate Schools and ProQuest. Trapani’s master’s thesis explores how artists and organizations create meaningful connections in a rapidly shifting cultural landscape. Motivated by a curiosity of how she could turn her passion into a career, Trapani examined three nonprofit arts organizations that have successfully adapted over time while remaining grounded in their values. Her research highlights how these groups integrate artistic practice with purpose-driven programming, demonstrating that contemporary music can serve as both an aesthetic experience and a powerful tool for connection. Drawing on case studies ranging from nationally recognized ensembles to Kansas City’s own No Divide KC, Trapani found successful organizations share a commitment to accessibility, inclusivity and community engagement. Through innovative programming such as festivals, collaborative performances and interdisciplinary events, these groups break down barriers between artists and audiences, inviting participation and dialogue. Trapani even had the opportunity to put her findings into action at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. With the support of her advisor AWith the support of her advisor Andrew Granade, Ph.D., associate dean of academic and faculty affairs and professor of musicology, Trapani curated and produced a multimedia performance that invited audiences to move through gallery spaces as music unfolded alongside visual art. The program featured works by 21st-century female composers paired with contemporary artwork, allowing audiences to engage with the performance from multiple perspectives and even encounter it unexpectedly as they moved through the museum.“That felt like kind of my first chance to curate something that was rooted in something that’s really important to me,” Trapani said. “There were some really meaningful conversations that I got to have with people in and after the performance.”Trapani is currently pursuing her Doctor of Music at Michigan State University and is continuing her work, developing a performance in collaboration with the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum.
Jun 12, 2026
Katelyn Hurd sees every experience as an opportunity to learn and grow
Katelyn Hurd knows who she is and what she wants. That hasn’t always been the case, but her journey as an actor has transformed her. She credits the theatre community at UMKC and Kansas City with helping her grow as a performer and as a person.
Hurd is a junior studying theatre and English. She came to UMKC from a small town in Kansas, where acting opportunities were few and far between. Her introduction to theatre came from her older brother, who unknowingly changed her life.
“When I was in eighth grade, my brother had to work the concession stand at the high school’s fall play,” Hurd said. “I was going through some hard things, so he took me with him to get me out of the house. I sat in the back row of this low-budget high school play, and I just knew that this was going to be my thing. I started acting when I got to high school. My first show was ‘Leaving Iowa,’ and my brother was in it with me. I have him to thank for everything, because he took me to that first play.”
After her freshman year of high school, Hurd transferred to a larger school in a town with more opportunities to get involved in theatre. From doing virtual plays during Covid to acting in ‘Mamma Mia,’ she knew she didn’t want to leave that world. That’s where UMKC and Kansas City came into play.
“I was backstage during ‘Mamma Mia’ my junior year and remember thinking how sad I was to only have one year of this left,” Hurd said. “I realized right then that I wanted to do this forever. My senior year of high school I was president of the drama club and hit the ground running. That’s when I chose to go to UMKC. There are so many community and professional theatres in Kansas City that I knew I could get involved in, along with the Conservatory.”
In addition to Conservatory productions, Hurd has been part of performances with Summit Theatre Group, City Theater Independence, Pearson Productions and Gladstone Theatre in the Park. She’s also auditioned at numerous other places in the metro area, experience she values even if she doesn’t book a part.
“There was some culture shock when I first came to UMKC. I would audition for shows and not get any part,” Hurd said. “I did 23 auditions my freshman year, and I only got cast three times. That didn’t happen for me before that, because there wasn’t a lot of competition where I lived. It’s taught me so much though and really pushed me to work harder.”
Hurd credits the theatre faculty with supporting her and reinforcing the ups and downs of a career in theatre. She said they’re straightforward and transparent, but also encouraging and supportive. While Hurd took theatre classes during high school, she’s found significant value in the classes she’s taken at UMKC and the professors she’s learned from.
“I am the person in class who asks a question and then has three follow-up questions,” Hurd said. “I can ask such specific questions and they have the answers, and that’s been so helpful. I know I can go to them for advice about the industry too, because they’ve been there and have that experience.”
As an aspiring actor, most of Hurd’s experience was on stage until she came to UMKC. The theatre curriculum includes practicum classes where students are required to work backstage during productions to learn more about technical areas such as lighting, sound, set construction and costumes. Hurd says that experience has made her a better performer and theatre community member.
“One thing I learned early is that it doesn’t matter how good you are, it matters how you treat people,” Hurd said. “Experiencing the work backstage helps you better understand what’s going on around you and connect better with the people in those roles. Theatre is about community, and creating a strong community makes for a better experience and performance for everyone.”
The Conservatory community has played a prominent role in Hurd’s growth, both as a performer and as a person. While you might imagine the environment to be competitive, Hurd says the community is supportive of each other. She studied abroad in Glasgow, Scotland for a semester, an experience that helped her appreciate what everyone brings to the table.
“I can be a competitive person, and that shone through my first year here,” Hurd said. “Going overseas really helped me ground myself. I’m confident in what I can do and I’m not trying to compete with everyone around me. It really changed the lens I see through from competitiveness to inspiration. I want to learn from others around me and root for their success.”
Studying at the University of Glasgow introduced Hurd to people from all over the world. She saw that everyone had different backgrounds, approaches to theatre and acting styles. She embraced the opportunity to learn from them – an experience that changed the way she views herself and contributed to her personal growth.
“You can respect other performers for what they do well and still trust yourself and your abilities to perform,” Hurd said. “Somebody else's ability to do something well doesn't mean that you also can't do it well. If you’re always comparing yourself to somebody else, you’ll be miserable. I know, because I was. Now I trust myself. I can watch one of my friends perform and do amazing and it doesn’t affect how I think of my own abilities. I know I’m here because I’m capable too.”
Jun 11, 2026
Chamber is part of the William T. Kemper Research Lab: Characterization for Electromagnetics, Antennas and RF Technology
When you step inside the anechoic chamber at UMKC, the first thing you’ll notice is the silence. Try yelling, and the sound goes nowhere. There's nothing for it to bounce off.
That’s exactly the point.
An anechoic chamber is a quiet, foam-lined room for electromagnetic waves. Electromagnetic waves power radar systems, wireless communication and the devices we use every day. These waves will reflect off almost anything: walls, tables, people walking nearby. In an ordinary lab, these reflections can create interference that corrupt measurements and produce unreliable results. However, this interference disappears inside the anechoic chamber since the specialized foam covering the walls absorbs the waves rather than letting them bounce around, much like how echoes are reduced in a soundproof room. This creates a clean, interference-free environment, which is essential for producing accurate and reliable measurements.
At UMKC, the anechoic chamber supports a wide range of research involving electromagnetic signals and wireless systems. Researchers can use the chamber to precisely measure and characterize antennas, as well as test and validate technologies such as signal processing methods and beamforming. Without this environment, it would be much harder to isolate signals and understand how systems truly perform.
UMKC’s anechoic chamber is the only one in the Kansas City area and open to the public, making this highly specialized research space accessible to the community.
Matt Lindboe (M.S. ’26) was one of the very first students to work with the anechoic chamber before he graduated in May.
"I like to say that an anechoic chamber allows us to pretend that the only things in the universe are us and whatever we're testing," Lindboe said. "The pyramidal foam absorbs any outgoing waves, so they don't get reflected back toward us."
Under the DARPA Emon “Gaining Radar Advances with Spatio-Temporally-Variant Waveform Predictive Planning (GRASP)” project, UMKC, in collaboration with the University of Kansas' Radar Systems Laboratory and the Colorado School of Mines' ARC Research Group, are working toward improvements in radar range, signal strength and image resolution. Lindboe is part of this project, specifically conducting research on antenna design and characterization.
“Radar works by sending out electromagnetic waves and measuring how they bounce back from objects,” Lindboe said. “The challenge is that those return signals can be extraordinarily faint, especially when a target is small or far away. In an ordinary lab, detecting a weak signal is nearly impossible due to interference from external sources. However, these vulnerabilities are minimized and pretty much non-existent in an anechoic chamber.”
In particular, the team is measuring how low-power electromagnetic waves interact with small objects, similar to how water or sound waves behave. As distance increases, the objects intercept less of the wave, which makes the radar response weaker.
In one experiment inside the chamber, they used an array of eight transmitting antennas to send electromagnetic waves toward a small metallic plate balanced on a rotating post. A receiving antenna captured the reflected signal as the plate was rotated through different angles. When the plate sat at certain orientations, the receiver picked up almost nothing. But by manipulating the transmitted wave in specific ways, the team was able to help the receiver see the plate far more clearly at those difficult angles, more than doubling the strength of the received signal.
"We've seen from measurements in the chamber that manipulating the electromagnetic wave in specific ways can more than double the strength of the received signal," Lindboe said.
The team subsequently hopes to address the broader question of how to best use multiple radar sensors simultaneously. More sensors will mean more information about a target will be provided. The team will need to figure out which sensors to use, where to place them and how to interpret the combined data. These are exactly the kinds of questions the chamber is built to answer.
The anechoic chamber at UMKC is also used to measure and characterize antennas and to evaluate techniques like beamforming and direction-of-arrival estimation.
This was especially important for Sai Sampreeth Indharapu’s (Ph.D. ’26) research, which focuses on beamforming.
Beamforming is the technology behind how wireless systems direct energy toward a specific user rather than broadcasting it in every direction. Think of it like a spotlight. By controlling the phase and amplitude of signals sent through each element of an antenna array, the system can direct wireless energy precisely where it needs to go. It's used in everything from cellular networks to satellite communications and defense systems.
Indharapu developed an AI-assisted method that predicts the correct antenna settings needed to point the beam at a given target angle.
"A lot of existing research in beamforming focuses mainly on simulation results," Indharapu said. "There are fewer studies that experimentally validate these methods using real hardware."
To bridge this research gap, Indharapu built a low-cost modular hardware testbed using software-defined radios (radio devices that can be controlled through software) and used the anechoic chamber to put his AI method to the test.
In the experiment, he gave the system a target angle, such as 30 degrees. The AI then predicted the antenna weights needed to steer the beam in that direction. Indharapu rotated the transmitting phased antenna array in small angular steps, measuring the received signal strength at each angle. If the experiment worked, the measurement plot showed a peak of energy at the target angle.
"It was very rewarding when the measured beam directions matched the expected directions," Indharapu said. "It showed that the AI-assisted beamforming method and the hardware testbed were working together in a real experimental environment, not just in simulation."
This validation was especially important for Indharapu as it was an important part of his Ph.D. dissertation that he recently defended.
And to think it all started with a room full of foam.
Jun 03, 2026
On June 27, video board will be on display for free UMKC Family Soccer Festival and watch party
As the world’s biggest soccer event prepares to take over town, Kansas City Athletics continues to elevate its soccer programs and the fan experience at Durwood Soccer Stadium at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Multiple projects to help raise the profile of Kansas City Soccer are underway this summer, highlighted by the addition of a top-of-the-line Daktronics video scoreboard on the east side of the stadium.
“Our elevations to Durwood Soccer Stadium are transformational for our soccer programs, athletics department and university community,” Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Brandon Martin said. “The enhancements will undoubtedly help with recruiting and optimizing the in-stadium fan experience. This advancement is a true testament to the excellence that both of our soccer programs have done on-and-off the field.”
On Saturday, June 27, the community can get a first look at the video board at the free UMKC Family Soccer Fest, including a watch party for the Algeria vs. Austria match at 9 p.m. The Kansas City Roos Men’s and Women’s soccer teams are joining the festivities along with food trucks and other activities.
The video board will stand 34 feet wide and 17 feet high, a considerable upgrade from the previous standard scoreboard. The Daktronics 520x1040 LED Outdoor Video Display (DVX) will create an immersive fan experience, featuring live video, instant replays, fan promotions and more. Fans will be shown motion animations, real-time statistics, scoring information and sponsor activations, creating a professional-quality experience for fans of Kansas City’s College Team.
“Our recent success, including Summit League Regular Season and Tournament Championships and advancing in the NCAA Tournament each of the last two seasons, has helped generate momentum for continued investment in our program. These enhancements reflect UMKC's commitment to providing our student-athletes with an elite collegiate experience and the resources necessary to compete at the highest level,” Men’s Soccer Head Coach Ryan Pore said. “As we prepare to celebrate the 25th anniversary of one of the most successful teams in program history, these investments reinforce our vision of building a program that honors its history while continuing to elevate the standard for current and future student-athletes. I would like to thank Chancellor Agrawal, Dr. Martin and especially Ursula Gurney. Their leadership and support have been instrumental in bringing these enhancements to life. Together, these investments strengthen our commitment to our student-athletes, alumni, supporters and the Kansas City community as we continue working to establish UMKC as one of the premier Division I soccer programs in the country.”
“The addition of the video board elevates our facility to one of the top college stadiums in our region,” Women’s Soccer Head Coach Jess Smith said. “We are excited for how it will improve the game day experience for our players and fans starting this fall. With the integration of our Spiideo camera system, we plan to use this technology during training sessions to show our team successes and areas for improvement, which will greatly enhance our learning environment.”
In addition to the elevated fan experience, the video board will also create new analytical opportunities for Kansas City’s soccer programs. The board will be integrated with Kansas City’s Spiideo system, allowing in-the-moment film breakdown and strategy development.
Four new Spiideo cameras have been added at Durwood Soccer Stadium - an upgrade to the mid-field camera on the east side, the addition of a mid-field camera above the west side press boxes and the addition of field-level cameras behind each goal. This brings the total number of cameras around the stadium to eight, providing 360-degree coverage and setting the standard for soccer programs around the nation.
Auxiliary stadium upgrades include an analog timing board on the west stands to provide ease for coaches when keeping track of game time, new custom-branded ball stands outfitted with the Kansas City Soccer crest and upgrades to stadium signage.
Along with in-stadium upgrades, Kansas City Men’s Soccer will enjoy a remodeled locker room. The back-to-back Summit League Champions will enjoy new lockers from Longhorn Locker Co., new carpeting, upgraded lighting and a full media center. Construction on the locker room is expected to be completed prior to the beginning of the 2026 fall season.
About Kansas City Soccer at UMKC
Kansas City Athletics is excited to share the elevated Durwood Soccer Stadium experience with its fans in 2026! Men’s and Women’s Soccer season tickets are on sale now with single game tickets available beginning July 13. Women’s soccer season tickets begin at $50 and men’s soccer season tickets start at $60. For an upgraded experience, fans can join the Cupini’s Corner Kick Club Presented by Boulevard Brewing, which includes access to premium club space and complimentary food and drink throughout the match. For just a $70 upgrade for the entire season, you won’t be able to find a better premium option in college soccer! Tickets can be purchased online at kcroos.com/tickets or by calling the Kansas City Ticketing Office at (816) 235-2849.
About Kansas City Athletics
The Kansas City Roos are the NCAA Division I teams of the University of Missouri-Kansas City, providing energy, excitement and a rallying point for campus and community. UMKC, one of four University of Missouri universities, is a public university serving more than 16,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. UMKC engages with the greater Kansas City area to promote exceptional student success, conduct impactful researc, and elevate our region’s economy and workforce while fostering an environment welcoming to all. For more information, visit KCRoos.com or follow us on social media with the handle @KCRoosAthletics. For more information about UMKC, visit UMKC.edu.
Jun 03, 2026
News station will move in phases starting this month
UMKC announced today that KCUR 89.3, the university’s NPR affiliate, will have a new home on the Country Club Plaza, beginning June 15.
KCUR staff and broadcast operations will move into the Park Plaza building on 47th Street, near the Unity Temple, a short distance from its original location at 4825 Troost Ave.
KCUR staff have been working remotely since being notified that their former building at 4825 Troost location needed to close due to a rapidly deteriorating foundation that could have rendered it uninhabitable with minimum notice. With employee safety in mind, the university closed the building on Jan. 31.
“Although the building closure presented challenges, we’re excited to be past that and to confirm that KCUR will be in a new location that is an upgrade for staff and offers convenient access to everything in the Kansas City metro,” said Troy Bruun, UMKC vice chancellor for finance and administration. “We thank KCUR employees for their patience and appreciate the strong outpouring of support from the community as radio station staff have dealt with this unexpected transition to a new facility.”
UMKC explored multiple options for relocating KCUR with its unique space needs. The radio station needed not only office space for its staff, but broadcast facilities to keep its 24/7 news operation on the air. The community responded with an outpouring of support, including dozens of leads on potential office spaces.
Throughout the process of exploring new locations, the top goal of the university and KCUR was to keep their broadcast programming on air and going strong, a goal that was accomplished.
The Plaza lease will give KCUR and its sister station Classical KC a fresh start in a location that will be easily accessible to employees. Station manager Sarah Morris says her team is planning to move in phases during the coming weeks, with top priority being to set up the broadcast studio in the new space.
Jun 02, 2026