At the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City, Jon Patterson, Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives, convened a meeting on March 11, 2026, with representatives from Midwest University and state officials to discuss key issues in higher education.

Speaker Patterson, a Republican lawmaker from Lee’s Summit, is the first Asian American to hold the position in Missouri’s history. Also in attendance was Richard West, who represents Missouri’s 102nd District and previously served as Mayor of New Melle, bringing more than two decades of experience in law enforcement.

The meeting centered on opportunities to strengthen collaboration between the State of Missouri and Midwest University, with a focus on advancing academic development, cultivating global leadership, and expanding international exchange initiatives. Participants emphasized the importance of sustained partnerships between state leadership and universities in preparing future leaders and enhancing the state’s global educational presence.