Make your pledge
2026 MSU United Way Ambassadors
"I Believe in the programs and people United Way supports."
Dr. Kelly Rapp
Director, Career Center
"It is a respected Organization that provides support to our community."
Miranda Myrick
Clinical Assistant Professor
"I've seen what's possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose."
Dr. Alex Johnson
Director, Center for Community Engagment
"I believe investing in our community helps create a stronger future for everyone."
Carrie M. Stephens
Dispatch Manager
"With so many people in our community in need, I trust United Way to allocate funds in a way that impacts as many people as possible."
Tara Oetting
Clinical Professor
"To help kids live healthier and be successful in life...and to create stronger local communities where all can live and thrive."
Dr. Melissa R. Penkalski
Professor, Graduate Programs Director
"The united way, together with their amazing partners, help all of us in the ozarks region thrive!"
Dr. Benjamin Beranek
Assistant Professor of Economics
"Access creates opportunities, and we all deserve opportunities to flourish."
Dr. Julia Troche
Professor
"Two words: local impact. Our funds help our neighbors, our local children and our community."
Dr. Keri Franklin
Professor, Department of English
Why United Way?
The United Way Ozarks Region has made some exciting new changes in how they plan to invest our donations differently in the community.
The new funding strategy focuses on the health, education and financial stability needs of our community and is designed to maximize our undesignated funds. You can still designate funds to your organization of choice on the mobile pledge form.
Other ways to get involved
You can get involved through volunteering with any of the following programs and more. Visit their website or call the United Way Ozarks Region for more information at (417) 863-7700.
If you hear of someone with housing, food, or funding need, refer them to 2-1-1 for assistance. It is free, confidential and a 24-hour resource and referral hotline.
MSU United Way Campaign Committee
Please let us know if you have questions – we are here to help.
Chair
Vice chair
United Way Representative
Brandon Jenson
Director of Development and Labor Relations
United Way Ozarks Region
Members