STATE OF THE UNIVERSITY
LINCOLN AT A GLANCE
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), the University 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 BY THE NUMBERS
59.2%
retention rate (first to second year) is the highest in 27 YEARS
2,054 undergraduate and graduate students
Student-to-faculty ratio
17:1
9%
Percentage of students come from out of state (notably Kansas, Illinois, Tennessee, Florida, California and others)
22% of current Blue Tiger students come to LU from a foreign country
14.1%
total enrollment increase (2024 vs. 2023)
LU sponsored athletic programs
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
Stacia R. Bradley Brown ’74, Ed.D., Board Member
Richard G. Callahan, J.D., Board Member
Terry Rackers, B.S., Board Member
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Lincoln Family and Friends,
I am proud to present to you this State of the University Report, outlining the successes and accomplishments we have achieved together. It is clear that our institution is experiencing tremendous growth, both in academic excellence and enrollment, and I am excited to share our work to extend our legacy as an HBCU and 1890 landgrant institution.
Over the last three academic years, we have seen remarkable academic progress. Our students’ commitment to excellence is reflected in increased grade point averages across the board, including a rise in the average GPA of first-time freshmen. These gains are the direct result of our faculty and staff’s dedication to innovative teaching methods and fostering a supportive learning environment. Initiatives like the University College, which provides critical programming for first-time students, will be paramount to ensuring this level of success continues and reaches new heights.
Our enrollment numbers have also grown significantly, with an increase in students from across the nation and around the globe. The first to second-year retention rate is the highest it has been in nearly three decades. This again reflects the strides we have made in our commitment to seeing our students excel. Every person from our students, faculty and staff recognizes the value of a Lincoln education, and the benefits of matriculating from day one to graduation.
The work we do is not just about numbers or milestones but about transforming lives. The achievements outlined in this report are a testament to the collective dedication of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and supporters. As we build on this momentum, I invite each of you to continue to engage with Lincoln University’s mission and join us in shaping its future.
I am excited for the road ahead, and I am confident that the even greater is on the way for our Lincoln University.
Sincerely,
John B. Moseley, Ed.D. President
INVESTING IN LINCOLN UNIVERSITY
Over the past year, Lincoln University secured an additional $2.2 million to fully fund the land-grant match; this additional revenue has raised Lincoln’s land-grant funding to $12.6 million annually. The University extends its heartfelt thanks to the state for this critical support, which underscores Lincoln’s unwavering commitment to growth, development and the success of its students.
The University also secured $150,000 from Missouri’s HB 3 Lottery Proceeds Fund to expand Extension programs that provide coaching, education and advisement to encourage urban gardening and agriculture. Additionally, $100,000 has been allocated for mental health initiatives and programming, including the Becoming a Healthier LU Initiative.
These investments, including the fully funded land-grant match, highlight the immense value of Lincoln University as an HBCU and 1890 land-grant institution. They demonstrate a deep commitment to fulfilling Lincoln’s mission of transforming lives by providing high-quality education, fostering innovation and supporting student success.
ACADEMIC GAINS
1
Students at Lincoln University are at the heart of our mission, and we are dedicated to providing them with the resources, support and technology they need to excel. From the moment students step onto campus as freshmen, our focus is on helping them achieve their academic and career goals. Through a combination of personalized support programs, cutting-edge technology and a commitment to their success, we ensure that their journey at Lincoln is both enriching and empowering.
2
Newly established during the 2023-24 academic year, University College at Lincoln University is a key resource for academic success, specifically designed for freshmen with zero to 30 credit hours. It offers students the tools and support needed to build essential skills for a successful college journey. The program provides a variety of resources to help students create personalized college plans, guiding them in setting and achieving their educational and career goals from the outset. University College is committed to helping students maximize their time at Lincoln University.
3
First offered in the summer of 2023, the Summer Bridge program offers incoming freshmen direct support to ensure a strong start. Successful completion of this program allows students to join the First Year Success Initiative, which provides tailored academic and nonacademic support. These cohort-based programs, supported by the Academic Success Center’s Success Coaches, ensure that students are part of a supportive community from the beginning of their college experience.
4 5
Blue Tiger Connect can bridge the gap between students and essential technology for academic success. All full-time Lincoln University students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours who have completed fewer than 60 credit hours are eligible to receive a wireless-ready laptop at no extra charge.
Lincoln University is committed to staying at the forefront of technology. The University’s classrooms and residence halls are equipped with new servers and Wi-Fi devices, providing students with the best tools and connectivity for their academic needs. These upgrades are part of an ongoing effort to enhance the learning environment and ensure that students are fully equipped to succeed.
NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Lincoln University is expanding and enhancing its academic offerings by revamping
100% online graduate and certificate programs,
enhancing accessibility for a wider audience. Online degree programs include:
• a Master of Business Administration
• a Master of Arts in Higher Education with a focus on HBCUs
• a Master of Education in School Administration
New programs are also available in music and new certificates in Cybersecurity and in Mental Health for First Responders.
Lincoln’s top academic majors for both undergraduate and graduate students include agriculture, nursing, education, criminal justice and business.
“Lincoln’s Counseling Program prepared me for the most important parts of being a school counselor-advocating for students, and building effective relationships with students, parents and teachers, to support students,”
– Kimberly Wilkins, counselor
Capital City High School (Jefferson City,
Missouri)
STUDENT LIFE
The well-being of students is a top priority at Lincoln University, which is why the University has launched the Healthier LU: Healthy Mind, Body and Spirit initiative. Developed with input from the University Wellness Committee, this program focuses on supporting the mental, physical and emotional health of students, faculty, staff and administration. The initiative emphasizes balance in work, life and school responsibilities; promotes healthier eating and exercise habits; encourages emotional and spiritual practices; and fosters supportive relationships within the campus community.
Lincoln University is updating its dining services through a partnership with SodexoMagic, led by Magic Johnson, to provide enhanced food options and improve the overall student dining experience. A new convenience store (C-Store) will open in the Student Union Center, allowing students to use Flex Dollars for purchases. The cafeteria will offer a range of healthier food options.
Future plans include renovating the cafeteria in the summer of 2025, adding a Black-owned pizza chain in the fall of 2025 and introducing late-night dining in Dawson Hall in 2025. These improvements are designed to enhance the dining experience and support a healthier campus environment.
ALUMNI UPDATE
The Lincoln University of Missouri Alumni Council was created in 2024 to strengthen the bond between the University and its alumni, fostering a supportive and engaged community among the University’s 19,000 alumni. The Council aims to enhance the relationship between alumni and the University through strategic engagement, communication and programming, ultimately contributing to the institution’s growth and success.
The Council’s membership is open to all graduates and individuals who have completed at least one semester at Lincoln University. It will consist of 16 members who are selected based on their commitment to the University, professional achievements and willingness to contribute.
Engagement strategies include the formation of affinity groups, which will build and celebrate local, regional and interest-based alumni communities. These groups will support personal and professional growth while enhancing the overall alumni experience. Events and programming such as Homecoming, reunions and networking mixers will foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for mentorship and professional development.
Effective communication is crucial for the Council’s success. The Council will keep alumni informed and connected through updates on University and alumni achievements, promote opportunities for involvement, and facilitate networks that support both personal and professional growth. This ongoing communication will help create a strong, unified alumni community that actively contributes to the University’s mission.
Two major construction projects are set to enhance Lincoln University’s campus, reflecting our strong commitment to improvement and growth. Dawson Hall, the largest residence hall, is undergoing a $23.25 million renovation to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The upgraded facility will feature 180 modernized rooms and more than 300 beds, with completion expected by late spring 2025.
Additionally, plans continue for the $41.5 million Health and Security Sciences Institute, funded by state, county and city grants. The institute will be located northeast of Elliff Hall. This facility will house the University’s nursing program, an emergency operations training center, student study areas and an observation deck, significantly advancing the University’s capabilities in health and security sciences.
Lincoln University is advancing campus safety and sustainability with significant upgrades. The University is investing $800,000 from the governor’s allocation for life/safety improvements to replace fire system panels across campus, install new and upgraded security cameras on the main campus and at Extension sites, plus add multiple cameras for enhanced surveillance. Additionally, upgrades to the LUPD Dispatch Area are currently in progress to further bolster campus security.
The University is utilizing $776,580 from the governor’s allocation for energy improvements. This funding supports lighting and automation upgrades, establishes separate electrical usage tracking by building and enhances system monitoring across campus. These efforts aim to optimize energy efficiency and continue improvements in sustainability.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
Dawson Hall Health and Security Sciences Institute
