UCM Update

The Strategic Deterrent Coalition (SDC), a national organization dedicated to supporting and maintaining the United States’ strategic nuclear deterrent, has selected the University of Central Missouri as the site for its first symposium, May 4-6. Senior military leaders from Washington, D.C. and academic experts from institutions such as Yale University have roles in the event, titled “Strategic Deterrence in the 21st Century.”

The coalition is working in cooperation with UCM to help make the symposium possible. UCM’s Elliott Student Union and Traditions at Pertle Springs provide the setting for campus activities ranging from guest speakers and panel discussions to lunch and dinner events. Speakers from all across academia and the U.S. military will be participating in the event. On the last day of the symposium, participants also get a tour of Whiteman AFB.

The 20th-ranked Mules fell behind fourth-ranked Minnesota State-Moorhead by 21 points early in the second half and couldn't complete the comeback as they fell 71-60 in the NCAA-II Central Region Semifinals, ending their bid for back-to-back national championships. The Mules got back to within nine a couple of times late in the game, but could get no closer.

In a year of many firsts, none have been greater than what took place Friday and Saturday in Birmingham, Ala. For the first time in their history, the Central Missouri Jennies track and field team can call themselves National Champions.

 
Another first came earlier in the season. In the first regular season poll, the Jennies were ranked No. 1 by the United States Track and Field and Cross Country Association (USTFCCCA). For all seven weeks of the regular season poll, UCM fell no lower than second in the rankings.

Central Missouri tied their highest team finish in program history, taking 11th place. Frank Cagnina (149) and Archie Williams (174) combined for 32.0 team points during their All-American performances. Cagnina became the second Mule in program history to win two national titles. Williams also finished in the top eight, at No. 5 in Division II.