Welcome back

It's that time of year when we get to welcome back students to Cape Girardeau as they prepare for the fall semester at Southeast Missouri State University.

Thursday many first-year students arrived on campus to unpack for the Early-Bird Move-In. The university reports more than 3,100 housing contracts are set for the fall semester.

Last fall 11,112 total undergraduate and graduate students were enrolled at the university, and according to enrollment director Dr. Debbie Below, Southeast is expecting a 2 percent total enrollment growth this fall.

Having a university like Southeast in Cape Girardeau is a tremendous benefit to our area. One study frequently cited estimates that for every 100 students there is an added economic impact to our area of about $1 million.

In addition to the economic impact, students enrolled at the university and those living in Southeast Missouri benefit from the many university programs and activities. From nationally recognized guest speakers to major athletic contests to the many other events that would not take place if not for the university, tremendous opportunities abound for all.

This weekend students will have an opportunity to enjoy many back-to-school festivities on campus, including the annual Chamber of Commerce Welcome Back Picnic from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the Show Me Center. Thank you to the chamber, university personnel and community volunteers for once again holding the picnic.

To the returning students, welcome back. And to the new students, we know you will enjoy living in Cape Girardeau as you continue your education at Southeast.