Lincoln University State of the University, fall 2025
STATE OF THE UNIVERSITY FALL 2025
Lincoln University of Missouri is home to a diverse student population that reflects a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and perspectives. A proud member of America’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Lincoln is committed to creating an inclusive environment where students from different walks of life can come together to learn, grow and contribute to a global society.
LINCOLN AT A GLANCE
2,256
64.4% undergraduate and graduate students first-time, full-time freshman retention rate –highest in 30 YEARS.
9.8%
12:1 Student-to-faculty ratio
23.6% international countries represented in student body
Percentage of students from out of state (top states: Illinois, Tennessee, Kansas, Texas, California & Georgia) enrollment increase
47
BOARD OF CURATORS
Victor B. Pasley ’68, M.S.Ed., President
Everidge Cade ’73, B.S., Vice President
Tina Shannon, M.P.A., Secretary
Richard R. Popp, J.D., Treasurer
Vernon V. Bracy ’82, B.S., Board Member
Richard G. Callahan, J.D., Board Member
Belinda M. Farrington ’79, B.S., Board Member
Terry Rackers, B.S., Board Member
Jonathan D. Truesdale, J.D., Board Member
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Lincoln Family and Friends,
Lincoln University of Missouri continues to build remarkable momentum as we move into the 2025-26 academic year. We are seeing powerful results from our collective investment in student success, academic innovation and institutional growth. From record retention to rising GPAs and expanding enrollment, these gains demonstrate that our Blue Tigers are thriving — academically, personally and professionally.
Our efforts to improve student success are delivering the kind of results we envisioned. The average cumulative GPA for all full-time students reached 3.06, up from 2.84 in 2022, and our first-to-secondyear retention rate is the highest it has been in three decades. These outcomes reflect the dedication of our faculty, staff and programs that help every student reach their fullest potential.
This year brings continued progress in academic innovation and institutional growth. New programs are expanding access and creating pathways for students and professionals alike, addressing workforce needs across Missouri and beyond.
Our investment in campus facilities also reflects forward momentum. The reopening of Dawson Hall provides students with a modern, supportive residential experience. Looking forward, construction of the Health & Security Sciences Institute advances our capacity to prepare future leaders in health care, safety and crisis response.
These milestones — from record academic achievement to new programs and modernized facilities — reflect our shared vision for Lincoln’s future. They are a testament to what is possible when we come together with purpose and determination to fulfill our mission of transforming lives through education, innovation and service.
I am deeply proud of all that we have accomplished and optimistic about the future that lies ahead. Together, we are strengthening Lincoln University’s foundation and ensuring that our legacy as a leading HBCU continues to grow — with excellence, with integrity, and with the unwavering spirit of our Blue Tigers.
Sincerely,
John B. Moseley, Ed.D. President, Lincoln University of Missouri
TOP 5 STATS
TOP 5 MAJORS
UNDERGRADUATE
Nursing Science
Business Administration
Agriculture
Wellness
Elementary Education
GRADUATE
Sustainable Agriculture
Counseling
Business Administration
Sociology/Criminal Justice
Higher Education
TO P 5 COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Jamaica
Nigeria
Ghana
Nepal
TIE: Costa Rica & Spain
TOP 5 STATES WE RECRUIT FROM OUTSIDE OF MISSOURI
Illinois
Tennessee
Kansas
Texas
TIE: California & Georgia
Average GPA, full-time undergraduate students:
ACADEMIC SNAPSHOTS
Average GPA, full-time graduate students:
3.01 3.85
END OF ACADEMIC YEAR 2023-24
Average GPA, full-time students by gender: of students in good academic standing in spring 2025, a Lincoln University record
END OF ACADEMIC YEAR 2024-25
2.98
3.03
3.09 3.09
Male students saw a 1.68% increase in GPA, narrowing the gender gap. Black students also showed positive momentum with a 1.9% GPA improvement.
47.6% 88.7%
of LU students on the Dean’s List in spring 2025, the highest in 10 years
5% INCREASE
fall and summer 2025 vs. 2024 11.4% & 23%
INCREASE IN CREDIT HOURS GENERATED
in average GPA for first-time freshmen, comparing the end of the academic year 2023-24 to the end of 2024-25
INSTITUTIONAL EXCELLENCE
NATIONAL RECOGNITION AND ACCREDITATION
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs reaffirmed Lincoln’s School of Business accreditation, and the School of Education earned national recognition for its literacy teacher preparation program. LU’s educator prep programs received seven years of accreditation, the maximum term awarded, from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation.
FACULTY AND STAFF LEADING THE WAY
• Megan Titus, the only two-time winner of the Missouri Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.
• Elizabeth Dorssom, recipient of the 2025 Standout Faculty Award from the All In Campus Democracy Challenge.
• Chief Gary Hill, featured in Roadtrip Nation’s “Rethinking Higher Ed” documentary.
• Tim Abney, inducted into both the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame and the North Carolina A&T Sports Hall of Fame.
• Safiullah Pathan, keynote speaker at the International Nutrition Research Conference in Singapore.
• Ashton Cleveland, selected for AASCU’s (American Association of State Colleges and Universities) 2025 Millennium Leadership Initiative Cohort.
• Cornelius Brownlee, selected for AASCU’s 2025 Emerging Leaders Program.
SALARY INCREASES CONTINUE IN 2025
Lincoln has invested approximately $3.05 million in salary increases since 2023. Raises ranged from 2.5% to 11% in 2025 alone, and nearly half of all faculty have received a 25% salary increase since 2021. These efforts help LU recruit and retain top talent to support its mission.
NEW PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES UPDATE
EMPLOYMENT ACADEMY OPENS NEW PATHWAYS
Lincoln University Employment Academy (LUEA) is making an impact in its inaugural year. Launched in March 2025, the program is designed for nontraditional learners balancing work, family and financial responsibilities. The two-semester certificate combines online coursework with hands-on internships to prepare students for the workforce while addressing Missouri’s employment needs.
EXPANDED SSI CERTIFICATE OPTIONS
The Lincoln University Security Sciences Institute (SSI) prepares students for careers in security through practical training and focused education. Programs equip students to handle modern security challenges, from digital threats to emergency response. SSI now offers certificates in cybersecurity, mental health for first responders, emergency medical technician (EMT) and geospatial information science (GIS) for students in Jefferson City and LU’s Fort Leonard Wood/St. Robert campus.
NEW MASTER’S DEGREE OPTIONS: MACED AND MSN
Lincoln’s Master of Arts in community and economic development (MACED) is a new, fully online graduate program designed for professionals seeking to lead and uplift communities through strategic planning, civic action and sustainable development.
Lincoln University’s new Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program prepares graduates to advance patient-centered care and address health care disparities through evidence-based practice, leadership, and a commitment to equity and excellence. Students may choose tracks in education or leadership.
INITIATIVE TO STRENGTHEN RURAL ECONOMIES
Lincoln University has been awarded a $725,669 grant from the National Science Foundation for its four-year project, “Excellence in Research: Translational Approaches to Strengthening Rural Resilience.” Ye Su, associate professor of agribusiness, will lead a team in examining rural dynamics and developing strategies to strengthen resilience and long-term prosperity for rural residents and businesses.
STUDENT SUPPORT
SUMMER BRIDGE PROGRAM + FIRST-YEAR SUCCESS INITIATIVE
A three-week residential experience, the Summer Bridge program offers structured academic and developmental support to help incoming freshmen achieve first-year success. Graduates of the program join the First-Year Success Initiative, gaining continued cohort-based academic and personal support in their freshman year. By providing targeted preparation before the academic year begins, the Summer Bridge program enhances readiness, engagement and long-term achievement.
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE: SUPPORTING FRESHMAN ACADEMIC SUCCESS
LU’s University College provides targeted academic support and advising for freshmen. Through personalized resources and guidance, the College helps students establish educational and career goals early, create effective academic plans and build a foundation for success throughout their undergraduate experience. Giving new students tools to thrive, University College plays a vital role in advancing student achievement and retention.
BLUE TIGER CONNECT: ENSURING EQUITABLE ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY
The Blue Tiger Connect program provides full-time undergraduate and graduate students with access to wirelessready laptops and technical support, supporting both academic and professional success. The program addresses digital equity, enhances learning opportunities and equips students with the tools necessary to thrive.
STUDENT LIFE
A GROWING CAMPUS AND STRONGER STUDENT LIFE
Campus life is thriving with new initiatives and revitalized traditions. LU restarted baseball and men’s soccer while launching women’s soccer, expanding athletic opportunities. Student organizations are also flourishing — all nine members of the Divine Nine are now active on campus for the first time in four years. Technology and infrastructure improvements include upgraded Wi-Fi in residence halls, a new ID card system and the distribution of 154 laptops over the past year.
LU STUDENTS SHINE AT INAUGURAL MISTER & MISS HBCU COMPETITION
Lincoln University celebrated major success at the inaugural Mister & Miss HBCU Competition in Charlotte, North Carolina, Jan. 21-26, 2025. Jesse Canamore, the 22nd Mister Lincoln University, and Yessnia Austin-Dixon, the 100th Miss Lincoln University, both placed in the Top 5 of their respective categories. Canamore earned second runner-up honors and will serve on the Mister HBCU Court for 2025-26.
STUDENT LIFE ( continued
TELEHELP 24/7 AND ZEN DEN FOR STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
LU has partnered with TeleHelp 24/7 to provide students with around-the-clock access to mental health services, including crisis support, counseling and substance-use coaching. This collaboration ensures every LU student can connect with licensed professionals anytime, anywhere, for high-quality, culturally competent care.
A calm, restorative environment where students can pause, reflect and reset, the Blue Tigers Zen Den Room opened this fall within Thompkins Health Center. The space provides opportunities for self-care and resilience-building as part of LU’s commitment to supporting the whole student.
LU UNVEILS RENOVATED SCRUGGS UNIVERSITY CENTER CAFETERIA
Lincoln University students are enjoying a refreshed dining experience this semester following a $1.75 million renovation of the Scruggs University Center cafeteria. The updated space features a modern design, improved traffic flow and expanded menu options, including a new Slim & Husky’s location serving artisan pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients.
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF HOMECOMING AT LINCOLN UNIVERSITY
Since 1925, Lincoln University students and alumni have returned to “the Hill” each fall to celebrate Blue Tiger pride, community and tradition. In 2025, LU honors a century of Homecoming memories, spirit and connection during Homecoming, from Oct. 26 to Nov. 1.
DAWSON HALL REOPENS FOLLOWING $23 MILLION RENOVATION
Completed Fall 2025
On Aug. 12, 2025, Lincoln University of Missouri celebrated the grand reopening of Dawson Hall, following a $23 million renovation of the 10-story student residence hall. The upgraded facility provides state-of-the-art living spaces designed to support academic success, health and well-being. Enhancements include glass-walled study nooks, a spacious first-floor lounge, a convenience store with grab-and-go dining options, an esports arena, improved sound insulation, and modern heating and cooling systems with individual thermostats.
CONSTRUCTION CONTINUES ON HEALTH & SECURITY SCIENCES INSTITUTE
Expected Completion: 2026
In fall 2024, LU broke ground on the Health & Security Sciences Institute (HSSI), a 40,000-square-foot facility designed to advance health care and crisis response education throughout Missouri and the Midwest. HSSI will expand the university’s nursing program and Law Enforcement Training Academy while providing a collaborative space for local, state and regional agencies to engage with students and faculty.
ASPHALT PROJECT
Expected Completion: 2026
The university spent nearly $1 million dollars on asphalt for parking lots and streets on campus. The only lot not addressed is the Mitchell Hall lot, which will be finished after completion of the HSSI building.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
Dawson Hall
Health and Security Sciences Institute
Asphalt Project
Lincoln University is at a pivotal moment — expanding our impact, lifting student success, strengthening our community and advancing our founders’ dream.
Will you join us in writing the next chapter?
Your gift today ensures we can:
• Sustain breakthroughs in student access, retention and completion.
• Fuel innovation in teaching, research and experiential learning.
• Extend support to the students who need it most.
• Continue growing our inclusive, thriving community long into the future.
Ready to make a gift?
Scan the QR code below to give securely online, or mail a check to LU Office of University Advancement, 302 Young Hall, 820 Chestnut Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Thank you!
