Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) will host a memorial service for Dr. Alla Barry, a biology professor who served on the university's faculty for more than 16 years. The institution announced plans to close early on Friday, September 11, specifically to allow the campus community to attend the service. Beginning at 2:45 PM that day, all classes will be cancelled for the remainder of the afternoon, and most university offices will also close their operations.
Dr. Barry was a committed biology professor and a truly beloved member of the university community in Joplin. Her passing has elicited emotional reactions from both students and staff across the campus. Throughout her tenure, Dr. Barry was remembered by MSSU students for her work within the classroom, as well as for the consistent kindness and genuine care she extended to everyone around her.
The memorial ceremony is scheduled to commence at 3 PM on Friday, September 11. It will be held in the Taylor Performing Arts Center auditorium, a prominent venue on the Missouri Southern campus. This event is being organized in collaboration with Dr. Barry’s family and is intended to be an inclusive gathering. It is open to all university members, including current students, faculty, and staff, alongside alumni and members of the wider community who wish to pay their respects and reflect on her legacy.
Nawal Ikram, a past student of Dr. Barry, shared personal reflections regarding the professor's significant academic influence and distinctive character. Ikram specifically recalled Dr. Barry's approachable nature and her remarkable ability to ensure that every individual around her felt heard and valued, even amidst the often-stressful environment of academic life. Dr. Barry was described as kind-hearted, compassionate, encouraging, and supportive, embodying a dedication that extended beyond her teaching duties. These qualities contributed to her lasting impact on many lives at MSSU.
In recognition of the emotional challenges some may face, Missouri Southern Counseling Services is available to provide support to students during this difficult period. For other individuals within the university community seeking assistance, the university’s Human Resources department is available for contact. The decision by MSSU to adjust its operational hours and cancel classes for the afternoon of September 11 underscores its commitment to providing an opportunity for collective remembrance and support for those grieving the loss of Dr. Barry.
