Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) will adjust its schedule on Friday, September 11, with an early closure planned to facilitate attendance at a memorial service. The university announced that beginning at 2:45 p.m., classes will be cancelled for the rest of the day, and the majority of university offices will also close. This adjustment allows students, faculty, and staff to honor Dr. Alla Barry, a respected biology professor and a beloved member of the university community, who recently passed away. The memorial service is scheduled for 3 p.m. in the Taylor Performing Arts Center auditorium on the MSSU campus.
Dr. Barry served on MSSU’s faculty for more than 16 years, establishing herself as a committed educator within the biology department. Her long tenure and dedication to students made her a significant figure on campus. The news of her passing has prompted emotional reactions from both students and staff, highlighting the impact she had during her time at Missouri Southern. The university, in collaboration with Dr. Barry's family, organized the upcoming memorial to provide a gathering space for remembrance. This ceremony is explicitly open to all members of the university community, including current students, faculty, and staff, as well as alumni and members of the wider Joplin and Four States community.
Students who experienced Dr. Barry's instruction remember her not just for her contributions in the classroom, but also for the genuine kindness and care she consistently showed toward those around her. Nawal Ikram, a former student of Dr. Barry, shared reflections on the professor's influence and character. Ikram noted Dr. Barry's consistent "approachable nature," emphasizing that in an environment where change is inevitable, this quality was a constant. This approachable demeanor, Ikram recalled, was paired with an ability to ensure every individual around her felt heard, creating a supportive atmosphere for learning. These qualities, combined with her dedication, left a lasting impression on her students.
Understanding that the loss of a prominent and well-liked faculty member can be a challenging experience for many, Missouri Southern has emphasized the availability of support services. Students who may be experiencing emotional difficulty during this time are encouraged to seek assistance from Missouri Southern Counseling Services. Additionally, individuals within the wider university framework who may need support are directed to contact Human Resources for guidance and resources.
The memorial service on Friday, September 11, provides an opportunity for the Missouri Southern community to gather and remember Dr. Barry's contributions to the university and her students.
