Space at William Woods University has been defined for the Missouri Army National Guard's Show-Me GOLD Program, and the ribbon was formally cut Thursday morning.
The initial announcement was made in August by WWU President Jahnae H. Barnett and Maj. Gen. Stephen Danner, adjutant general of the Missouri Army National Guard. Both were on hand Thursday for festivities.
"Last August, we formally announced the Show-Me GOLD Program," Barnett said. "William Woods is the first private college to offer it. This space is the official headquarters."
William Woods' program will kick off in the fall with its first class of 12 students.
"I think this will be an outstanding program," Danner added. "This is the largest starting class we've ever had. I'm really proud of this program."
WWU is the fourth university in the state to host this "Guard Officer Leadership Development" program.
In August, Danner said he was looking forward to starting the program, which will provide scholarship and a variety of educational opportunities - and high school graduates no longer have to choose between college or military service.
"You can do both," he said.
Members of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce were on hand to cut the ribbon on the space.
Benefits
The Show-Me GOLD program will offer students physical training and academic and military educational experiences. Benefits include drill pay for one weekend a month, tuition assistance, GI Bill benefits, student loan repayment assistance and incentive bonuses.
The program prepares candidates for the rigors and challenges they will face as commissioned officers in the Army National Guard. There are some eligibility requirements.
For more details, go to williamwoods.edu/admissions/active_military_and_veterans/gold_program.html.
The program is located on the second story of the Aldridge Hll building, including classroom space to support military studies and leadership courses.