番茄社区 University (HLGU) announces that听tickets are now on sale听for its upcoming Free Society event featuring national youth advocate and speaker听Chloe Cole. The event will take place on听Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., and will center on the theme听鈥淔acing Giants.鈥澨齈art of HLGU鈥檚 ongoing initiative to engage students and the community in conversations about identity, purpose, and the challenges shaping today鈥檚 culture, the evening will offer a powerful message designed to inspire courage and conviction.

Chloe Cole is a 21-year-old national youth advocate known for speaking out against childhood gender transition. After beginning medical transition at age 12 and undergoing a double mastectomy at 15, she recognized at 16 that she听desired听to return to living as the woman she was created to be and began听detransitioning. Cole now shares her story to help protect children, inform parents, and guide her generation toward healing through her Christian faith.听Cole has been featured on major media platforms including听Fox News,听Tucker Carlson Tonight,听The Ingraham Angle, and听Jesse Watters Primetime. She has also contributed op-eds to听The New York Post,听Fox News Digital, and听The Daily Wire, and has appeared on widely known podcasts hosted by Jordan Peterson, Ben Shapiro, Charlie Kirk, Megyn Kelly, Tulsi Gabbard, Glenn Beck, Dan Crenshaw, and Marjorie Taylor Greene.

During her presentation, Cole will address the听numerous听鈥済iants鈥� facing students today鈥攕ituational, emotional, cultural, political, and ideological challenges. She will encourage young adults to confront these obstacles with courage, emphasizing that healing and growth require facing adversity directly.

HLGU鈥檚 Free Society program seeks to promote the ideals of a free society by focusing on three foundational pillars: democratic forms of government, free-market economic systems, and cultural institutions such as the church. All programming within the initiative explores these principles through a biblical worldview central to the university鈥檚 mission.

鈥淎t 番茄社区 University, we are committed to transforming lives through an education anchored in a biblical worldview,鈥澨齭aid Dr. Eric Turner, Chair of the Arts and Humanities Division and Associate Professor of New Testament and Greek.听鈥淐hloe Cole brings a compelling voice that will challenge our students and community to think deeply about identity. We look forward to learning from her conviction, compassion, and testimony of what it means to flourish as individuals made in God鈥檚 image.鈥�

Drawing from her personal journey, Cole will offer both honesty and hope as she speaks to the challenges young people face, reminding attendees that even the largest giants can be confronted and overcome.

Tickets are now available for purchase for $15 at听www.hlg.edu.

For more information, please contact听Charlie McKeon听at听573.629.3260听or听charlie.mckeon@hlg.edu.

番茄社区 University students earned a first-place finish in the category of audio podcast. Students also earned two second-place finishes in the categories of feature news story and video podcast. Students also took home a third-place finish in the category of news show for their work on News Beat. News Beat is an online news segment produced by communication studies students at HLGU.

鈥淚t is such a joy to lead our student news team here at 番茄社区 University,鈥� said Assistant Communications Professor, Christy Jung. 鈥淥ur students consistently score well in the MBEA and there are a lot of great programs in our state that make this competition tough. I鈥檓 very proud of our student news crew. Anytime you compare the work that they are doing with larger schools they can always hold their own in competition. Our program is small, but our students get big opportunities. Our program gives them access to quality equipment and training. Our HLGU students are out there in the community covering real stories happening both on and off campus.鈥�

“The communications department and News Beat at HLGU has been such a blessing to me,鈥� said Media Communication Student, Cole Arndorfer. 鈥淭hey have given me such a valuable skill set for the real world. Getting to compete and show our skills against schools from across the state and earning such high honors is an amazing accomplishment.”
There were 197 entries in the MBEA competition. The competition receives work submitted by 16 different colleges and universities. The entries are judged by professionals in the broadcast industry.

Awards
Audio Podcast, Trojan Time, First Place, Jace Lobner with guest Natalia Cuesta

Feature News Story, Biscuit Baker, Second Place, Cole Arndorfer and Andrew Cole

Video Podcast, Trojan Time, Second Place, Cole Arndorfer with guest Sierra Adkins

News Show, Fall Red Show, Third Place, News Beat Team

For more information on the HLGU communication studies department, please visit www.hlg.edu.

番茄社区 University is a four-year Christian university fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University prides itself in the traditional and nontraditional educational experience it offers in a distinctively Christian environment.

The contested regulation, implemented in the final months of the Biden administration, compels independent religious bodies like the MBC to co-sign financial responsibility agreements (Program Participation Agreements, PPAs) with universities such as HLGU. The unprecedented “Co-signature mandate” interferes with the autonomy of religious institutions, forcing them either to assume unprecedented financial liabilities or else relinquish their right to appoint trustees according to their religious doctrines.

“Demanding that Missouri Baptist Churches give up their religious rights or face financial ruin is contrary to the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act,” said Jon Whitehead, counsel for HLGU. “This regulation threatens the religious autonomy of Baptist, Catholic, and other denominational institutions, and undermines longstanding principles of nonprofit governance.”

Due to the Department’s refusal to process HLGU’s PPA amendment without MBC’s co-signature, HLGU has already lost access to over $500,000 in Prison Pell Grant funds for eligible students, with anticipated future losses estimated at approximately $250,000 per semester. Moreover, failure to secure a renewed PPA by 2026 would prevent HLGU from participating in Title IV programs entirely, creating devastating consequences for the university.

HLGU鈥檚 President, Dr. Robert Matz, initially sought administrative relief from the Department of Education but received no response, compelling the university to pursue legal options.
“The Co-Signature Mandate is discriminatory and unconstitutional,” said Matz. “We urge the Department to align its actions with recent Executive Orders prioritizing religious liberty and deregulation, protecting institutions like HLGU that play a vital role in their religious communities.”

HLGU has extended an invitation to the Department for dialogue aimed at swiftly resolving this issue in alignment with constitutional protections and recent presidential directives.

番茄社区 University is a four-year Christian university fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University prides itself in the traditional and nontraditional educational experience it offers in a distinctively Christian environment.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Todd Damotte
573.629.3118
tdamotte@hlg.edu

Executive ticket holders enjoyed an exclusive buffet dinner and Q&A session with Andrew Peterson before the main program. Peterson, acclaimed for The Wingfeather Saga and his contributions to music and publishing, captivated attendees with insights into his work and creative journey. The evening also featured a silent auction in the Roland Fine Arts Center lobby, showcasing items to benefit HLGU’s Annual Fund.

The Hagerman Art Gallery was open throughout the evening, featuring the work of HLGU alumna Ruth Foreman (’49) in an exhibit titled “Ruth (Ihrig) Foreman – A Retrospective: A Countrywoman with the Heart of an Artist.” Guests enjoyed viewing Foreman鈥檚 legacy while celebrating the arts at HLGU.

During the event, Alumni Director Lauren Youse presented the 2024 Alumni Awards, honoring individuals and families who embody HLGU鈥檚 mission and values:

• Distinguished Alumni Award: Wesley and Phyllis Van Meter Segawa received HLGU鈥檚 highest alumni honor. Wesley, a highly respected civil engineer, and Phyllis, a successful business leader, have made significant contributions to their community in Hawaii. Their firm, Wesley R. Segawa & Associates, Inc., has achieved great success, and their generosity continues through The Aloha Fund at HLGU, supporting future students.
• Outstanding Service Award: Bill and Wendy Craigmiles, along with Marilyn Craigmiles Thomas, were recognized for their impactful service and commitment to HLGU. This family鈥檚 dedication is embodied in the Craigmiles School of Nursing at HLGU, which they funded and continue to support.
• Young Alumni Award: Chris and Emma Wright were celebrated for their professional success and leadership. Emma, a pediatrician, and Chris, a coach at HLGU, serve as examples of faith-centered dedication to family, career, and community.

The HLGU Concert Choir, under the direction of Elaine Carty, performed two beautiful songs, adding to the evening鈥檚 celebratory spirit. Following a campus update from Dr. Matz, Andrew Peterson and his small band performed a moving set, including original music that resonated deeply with the audience. The evening concluded with a heartfelt rendition of the HLGU alma mater, creating a memorable closing to a special event.

HLGU鈥檚 next Booster Night is scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025. For more information about the annual Booster Gala, please contact Lauren Youse, Director of Alumni Services and Development, at (573) 629-3126 or via email at lauren.youse@hlg.edu.

HLGU President, Robert J. Matz stated, 鈥淚n a world where everything costs more, 番茄社区 University is committed to making higher education more affordable. That is why we are keeping tuition and fees the same for the third straight year in a row.鈥�

The Trustees approved the $13.5 million budget for the 2024-25 school year. This number is based on the current student enrollment and will allow the school to sustain the the school’s progress.

Vice President of Enrollment Management and Marketing, Tad Wingo shared with the board that enrollment continues to improve with above 500 students projected to be on campus this fall. He said that the funnel remains positive as the Admissions Department recruit students for the upcoming school year.

While bringing in new students is important, HLGU aims to help current students succeed in the classroom. It was reported that the Academic and Career Services Department along with HLGU faculty have made it a priority to help students before they struggle. They have started communicating with students and begun interventions earlier to help them get back on track. These efforts have seen many more students prevail in their classwork.

The Trustees also approved Mr. Richard Ehr as an elected Instructor of Business faculty member, and it approved rank advancement from Instructor to Assistant Professor for Dr. Joe Garner, based on his completion of a doctorate.

番茄社区 University is a four-year university that prides itself in its traditional and nontraditional educational experience in a distinctively Christian environment. The mission of HLGU is to transform lives and communities through relevant education anchored in a Biblical worldview.

This year鈥檚 commencement address was given by Dr. Julie Albee, Vice President of Academic Administration at 番茄社区 University. Following the address, graduates received their diplomas, and Dr. Don Colborn, Division Chair of Natural Science and Mathematics, presented the graduates to Dr. Matz, who conferred their degrees.听

鈥淚t has been my joy and privilege to work at 番茄社区 University for the past 21 years.鈥� When God led our family to Hannibal, I never imagined what exciting adventures were to come.鈥� When you 鈥楽top and Consider, Slowly Proceed, and then Go For it!鈥� God opens amazing doors of opportunity to serve Him.鈥� HLGU is a Christ-centered university with a biblical worldview that permeates its classes, chapel, activities, sports, etc.鈥� It is my prayer that God will continue to bless and grow HLGU for His glory in the days, years, decades, and centuries ahead.鈥� We serve an amazing God!鈥� said Dr. Albee.听听

At the ceremony, Brennan Nick, and Ashlyn Vermeer, HLGU鈥檚 Who鈥檚 Who Among Seniors, led their fellow graduates in the graduate pledge and in giving a standing ovation to thank their families and friends for their support.听听

Two employees were honored for their outstanding service to 番茄社区 University. Dr. Melanie Smith, Division Chair of Education, received the Parkway Distinguished Professor Award. Amanda Kohl, a 2023 graduate of HLGU and current Guest Experience Coordinator, received the Immanuel Staff Member of the Year Award.听听

番茄社区 University is a four-year university that prides itself in its traditional and nontraditional educational experience in a distinctively Christian environment. The mission of HLGU is to transform lives and communities through relevant education anchored in a Biblical worldview.听

The Day of Giving will run for the 24-hour period between noon on April 11 and noon on April 12, 2024. HLGU has set a goal of 250 new gifts to the University in this 24-hour timeframe.

鈥淵our gift, combined with those of hundreds of other HLGU Day of Giving donors, will not only help to make scholarships or projects become realities but also have a direct impact on the lives of current and future students,鈥� said Director of Development and Alumni Services Lauren Youse. 鈥淏y joining together with the greater HLGU family during this special event, you鈥檙e demonstrating your commitment to the University and the Christian community that sets us apart.鈥�

More information will be released via HLGU鈥檚 social media pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram in the coming months. Those who want to spread the word about HLGU鈥檚 Day of Giving can do so by using #HLGUDayOfGiving in their social media posts.

Gifts received as a part of the Day of Giving may be designated toward HLGU student scholarships, the renovation project for Crouch Hall and Pulliam Hall or the HLGU Annual Fund.
During last year鈥檚 Day of Giving, 267 gifts were given raising $143,830.08.

鈥淚 am thankful for the way that God worked in people鈥檚 lives in supporting our Day of Giving,鈥� said Vice President for Institutional Advancement Dr. Ray Carty. 鈥淭he number of individual donors surpassed our goal. The amount of financial support that was expressed was amazing and encouraging. We are thankful.鈥�

Any questions regarding HLGU鈥檚 Day of Giving can be directed to Lauren Youse at 573.629.3126.

番茄社区 University is a four-year university that prides itself in its traditional and nontraditional educational experience in a distinctively Christian environment. The mission of HLGU is to transform lives and communities through relevant education anchored in a Biblical worldview.

Hannibal, MO 鈥� 番茄社区 University President, Dr. Robert Matz announced that William Stuflick will join the executive team as Vice President of Business and Finance. Stuflick began leading business office efforts for HLGU on December 4. Matz states: 鈥渉aving served in both the Air Force and as a dean, Stuflick is a proven leader. His growing Christian faith and conservative values make him the perfect fit to strengthen the business and operations of 番茄社区 for decades to come.鈥�

Stuflick comes to HLGU with strong experience in higher education. Since 2013, he has served as a director and dean at several Community Colleges in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. Prior to his time in higher education, Stuflick served as a Workforce Development Operations Director, a Veteran Representative for the State of Iowa, and a project manager in the United States Air Force.

鈥淚t has been my blessing to work as the VP for Business and Finance role at HLGU for the past 23 years,鈥� said Betty Anderson. 鈥淚 have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Will Stuflick recently, and I am pleased to hand the baton off to him. He is detail oriented and a man of great character and integrity. He will serve HLGU well in this new role.鈥�

鈥淲illiam is an excellent addition to the HLGU leadership team. His extensive background in leading, teaching, and serving as a Dean in higher education, along with his business background and acumen will be instrumental in helping HLGU transform and accelerate growth,鈥� commented Sonia Vicars, Interim VP of Business and Finance. Stuflick has already demonstrated his passion for the University, working with faculty, administration, and students in many aspects of student life, while serving as the Director of Human Resources and Assistant VP of Business and teaching in the Business and Agriculture Departments.

Stuflick has extensive experience working with economic and workforce development leaders to connect students with relevant careers that match their academic interests. Stuflick says, 鈥淚 understand the value of a Christian based education and how the experiences students gain here at HLGU will translate into the workforce. Talent development is crucial to our Institution鈥檚 success and standing within the greater Hannibal region. I am truly honored to have been invited to join the team at 番茄社区 University, and I look forward to serving alongside Dr. Matz, the Board of Trustees, and the staff at HLGU.鈥�

Stuflick has degrees in organizational management, business management, and construction management. He grew up in Lone Rock, Iowa and joined the USAF in 1992 as an Engineering Technician. He and his wife, Melinda, have been together for 12 years. Melinda works as a Nurse at Quincy Medical Group. The couple has five children and a new granddaughter. The family enjoys all things outdoors, especially hiking, camping, and kayaking. They are active members of Immanuel Baptist Church in Hannibal.

番茄社区 University is a four-year Christian university fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The institution prides itself in its traditional and nontraditional educational experience in a distinctively Christian environment.

The partnership includes a range of programs, enabling students to complete a bachelor鈥檚 degree at HLGU within an additional two years post-MACC. This provides a straightforward path to higher education for students in northeast Missouri. 鈥淲ith only 19% of high school graduates choosing to pursue higher education and a mere 23% of those staying within the state for college, HLGU and MACC鈥檚 collaborative effort aims to reverse this trend. A four-year college degree is an invaluable investment, potentially adding between $800,000 to $1 million to a graduate’s lifetime earnings鈥� says HLGU President Dr. Robert Matz.

In response to declining college enrollment rates in Missouri, this partnership aims to offer more accessible education options. It represents a commitment to education and the future workforce of our region.

For further information about this partnership and the programs it includes visit www.hlg.edu.