The Communications Department at Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) has announced the appointment of a familiar figure, Brian Mehrens, as its new department chair this semester. Mehrens, who has served as a communications professor for many years and as the lead advisor for MSSU’s radio station, KXMS, takes on the leadership position following the retirement of Ward Bryant. Bryant concluded a career at MSSU that spanned 34 years.
Mehrens assumes the role with an aim to bridge the gap between faculty and administration, sharing his vision for the department’s immediate and long-term future. As his first year in the position commences, students and staff have expressed interest in the direction the department will take under his guidance. Mehrens has indicated his intention to continue the work initiated by Bryant, with a particular focus on enhancing student experiences.
He noted that Ward Bryant had recently introduced new courses and certificates designed to align with evolving student needs and interests. Mehrens expressed enthusiasm for building upon this momentum, specifically mentioning the implementation of these curriculum changes. His approach values hands-on experience and collaborative efforts, principles he intends to integrate into his work as department chair.
A key objective for Mehrens and the department is to improve student retention. He articulated a hope to guide students towards recognizing the benefits of participating in immersive learning opportunities, not only within the Communications Department but also across the wider campus. This includes highlighting programs like Global Education and Health and Life Sciences, which offer diverse chances for engagement.
The department’s efforts are supported by an advisory board comprising professionals from outside the university. This board provides external input, which helps the department assess how effectively it is preparing students for their careers after graduation. Mehrens’ plan for the department aligns with this practice, emphasizing ongoing evaluations and making strategic adjustments as needed to ensure the curriculum remains relevant.
Mehrens emphasized the importance of preparing students for the evolving job market. He stated that in order to maintain student competitiveness, the department must focus on teaching skills and concepts that employers will seek in the years to come, rather than solely focusing on current requirements. He also plans to encourage faculty members to continue pursuing their specific areas of interest and to foster greater collaboration between students and faculty on various projects. Mehrens believes that when instructors demonstrate passion for a subject and invite students to participate, it can lead to a deeper, longer-term investment by students in the department as a whole.
As the Fall 2026 semester progresses, the Communications Department anticipates an increase in collaborative activities and a stronger overall connection between its students and Missouri Southern faculty. This focus on engagement and forward-thinking curriculum development marks a new chapter for the department under Mehrens’ leadership.
