Connecting Bearcats. Empowering communities.
Welcome to the Center for Engagement and Community Connection (CECC) at Northwest Missouri State University — a vibrant hub for collaboration, learning and growth. Open to all students, faculty and staff, the Center serves as a bridge between the campus and the broader community, creating meaningful opportunities for engagement that foster a sense of belonging, purpose and leadership. Through dynamic programming that encourages dialogue, cultural immersion, cross-campus collaboration and social responsibility, we cultivate a culture of connection, learning and active citizenship where every Bearcat can thrive.

As you prepare to celebrate your achievements, claim your cultural stole for the Center for Engagement and Community Connection. The cultural stoles honor identity, heritage, and personal journey. You are welcome to wear your stole during commencement as a symbol of pride and accomplishment or keep it as a meaningful memento of your time at Northwest. We also invite you to pick up your cultural stole and join us for our Bearcats Celebrate on Thursday, Dec. 5, from 12-2 p.m. in the Union Fireside Lounge (2nd Floor of the Union).

The Community Impact Award honors faculty, staff, students, and community members whose exceptional service reflects the principles of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recipients show a sustained commitment to the well-being of Northwest and the broader Maryville community. Nominations should recognize individuals whose service, engagement, or contributions create lasting positive change and uphold Dr. King’s vision of justice and shared responsibility. Click the link to submit a nomination or explore other MLK Commemorative Series events.

Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or staff, CECC has a newsletter designed just for you. The Student Connect keeps students in the loop with events, workshops, cultural celebrations, and resources to help you thrive. The Exchange offers faculty and staff professional development opportunities, campus highlights, and ways to stay engaged with the Bearcat community.
Choose the newsletter that fits you—or subscribe to both—and never miss an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with CECC.