2018
Nixon Hall, an expansion off Reynolds Hall which will house the Mathematics Department, is set to be completed and open for business by the end of the year.
Donors contributed to the construction of a state-of-the-art video board addition to the Athletic Complex.
2016
Work begins on the Reynolds Hall renovation project, which will create new classrooms and laboratory space in the second oldest building on campus. Reynolds houses the biology, environmental health, physical science and mathematics programs.
2015
The “Yours to Lose – Advanced Medical School Acceptance Program” is announced. The program will allow up to 25 Missouri Southern students to be admitted into Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences new medical school set to open in Joplin in 2017.
2014 - 2015
Five major projects- totaling more than $30 million – helped to reshape Missouri Southern’s landscape. The progress is unprecedented since the mid-1960s. The projects include: Warren Turner Field baseball stadium; End Zone Facility; Residence Halls (called "The Quads" because most rooms have four apartments); FEMA shelter; and renovation of Reynolds Hall.
2014
Dr. Alan D. Marble is appointed president after serving as interim.
2012
The University begins a year-long celebration of its 75th anniversary.
2010
The newly-renovated Mission Hills Mansion opens as the Ralph L. Gray Alumni Center along with the state-of-the-art Health Science building.
2009
The George S. Beimdiek Recreation Center and Willcoxon Student Health Center officially opened.
2008
Dr. Bruce W. Speck is named president.
2007
After serving 25 years as only the third President of Missouri Southern State University, Julio S. León announced his retirement. Dr. Terri Agee is appointed interim president.
2006
The first group of students receives their master's degrees
2003
On July 12, Governor Bob Holden signed a bill on the Missouri Southern campus that elevated the status of the institution from College to University. The legislation officially became effective on Aug. 28, 2003.
2002
A September 11 memorial service and dedication of a memorial "Flag of Freedom" plaza was held at Missouri Southern.
1995
Governor Mel Carnahan signed legislation that authorized Missouri Southern State College to establish international education as a distinctive theme of its mission.
1992
Richard M. Webster Communications and Social Science Building is opened.
1990
The Board of Regents approved a recommendation to pursue an international approach to undergraduate education.
1982
Dr. Julio León becomes president.
1977
Dr. Floyd Belk serves as interim President until Dr. Donald C. Darnton assumes the presidency in 1979.
1972
The college is renamed Missouri Southern State College.
1969
The college awarded first baccalaureate degrees to 198 students.
1967
The new 320-acre campus is opened under the direction of the first appointed president, Dr. Leon C. Billingsly.
1965
Legislation is passed creating the four year institution known as Missouri Southern College.
1964
The college adopts the official name of "Jasper County Junior College" under the direction of the Junior College District of Jasper County governed by a Board of Trustees.
1937
Joplin Junior College is established under the supervision of the Extension Division of the University of Missouri and held in the Joplin High School Joplin and H.E. Blaine is named first Dean.
