Introduction
The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is one of the nation’s most vibrant and diverse higher-education institutions. Located in the heart of Kansas City, UMKC offers students a wide range of opportunities for learning, growth, and exploration. With a rich history and an exciting future, UMKC is a place where students can pursue their passions and reach their goals. Whether you’re a student, faculty, or alumni, here are some fun facts about UMKC that you may not know.
History
UMKC traces its roots back to the early 20th century, when the University of Kansas City (UKC) was founded in 1929. UKC was a private, non-sectarian university that was founded by the Episcopal Church and the University of Kansas. UKC was later acquired by the University of Missouri System in 1938, and in 1963, the University of Missouri-Kansas City was established. UMKC has since grown to become one of the largest public universities in the state of Missouri, with more than 15,000 students enrolled.
Campus
UMKC’s main campus is located in the heart of Kansas City. It is a vibrant and diverse campus, with students from all over the world. The campus is comprised of 16 academic buildings, two residence halls, and a variety of other facilities. UMKC also has satellite campuses in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and Overland Park, Kansas. The campus is also home to the Kansas City Museum, which houses a variety of exhibits and artifacts related to the city’s history.
Academics
UMKC offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of disciplines. The university is divided into seven colleges and schools, including the School of Medicine, School of Law, and School of Education. UMKC also has a number of research centers and institutes, including the Center for Human Development and the Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Athletics
UMKC is home to a variety of NCAA Division I athletic teams, known as the UMKC Kangaroos. The Kangaroos compete in the Western Athletic Conference and participate in a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, tennis, and golf. UMKC also has a variety of intramural sports, including flag football, softball, and volleyball.
Notable Alumni
UMKC has produced a number of notable alumni, including Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist William Gass, NBA Hall of Famer Paul Silas, and former Kansas City mayor Kay Barnes. UMKC has also produced a number of notable musicians, including jazz legend Count Basie and singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow.
Student Life
UMKC offers a variety of student organizations and activities, including student government, Greek life, and intramural sports. The university also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a variety of art galleries, museums, and theaters. UMKC also has a variety of student-run organizations, including the UMKC Student Government Association, the UMKC Student Activities Council, and the UMKC Student Press.
Community Engagement
UMKC is deeply committed to engaging with the Kansas City community. The university has a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those in the community, including the UMKC Promise Program, which provides scholarships to local high school students, and the UMKC Community Engagement Initiative, which works with local organizations to promote civic engagement.
Conclusion
The University of Missouri-Kansas City is a vibrant and diverse institution that offers students a wealth of opportunities for learning, growth, and exploration. From its rich history to its commitment to community engagement, UMKC is an institution that is committed to providing a quality education and a vibrant student life. Whether you’re a student, faculty, or alumni, there’s something for everyone at UMKC.”
