Missouri Southern State University is preparing to host a memorial service for Dr. Alla Barry, a longtime biology professor and a deeply valued member of the campus community. The service is scheduled for Friday, September 11, at 3 p.m., and will take place in the Taylor Performing Arts Center auditorium on the university’s Joplin campus.
To facilitate attendance for the entire campus community, Missouri Southern will observe an early closure on the day of the memorial. Beginning at 2:45 p.m. on Friday, September 11, all classes will be cancelled for the remainder of the day. Additionally, most university offices will close their operations early to allow students, faculty, and staff to participate in the planned remembrance.
Dr. Alla Barry served on the faculty of Missouri Southern State University for more than 16 years. During her tenure, she was known as a committed biology professor who made a significant impact on those around her. Her recent passing has elicited strong emotional responses from both students and staff across the university, prompting the institution to organize this special service in her honor.
The memorial ceremony is being orchestrated through a collaboration between the university and Dr. Barry’s family. It is intended to be an inclusive event, open not only to current university members but also to wider community members and alumni who wish to pay their respects to the late professor.
Students who were taught by Dr. Barry consistently recall her not just for her dedication within the classroom, but also for the profound kindness and genuine care she extended to everyone she encountered. These qualities left a lasting impression on many individuals during their time at Missouri Southern.
Nawal Ikram, a past student of Dr. Barry’s, shared personal reflections on her academic influence and character. Ikram noted that Dr. Barry maintained an "approachable nature and ability to make every individual around her feel heard," even amidst the typically demanding academic environment where change is a constant. Ikram further characterized Dr. Barry as kind-hearted, compassionate, encouraging, supportive, and dedicated, highlighting the many positive attributes that defined her interactions and teaching style.
Recognizing the emotionally challenging nature of this time for many within the university, Missouri Southern Counseling Services stands ready to provide support to students who may be grappling with grief or distress. The university encourages any individual seeking support during this period to contact Human Resources for guidance and assistance.
