Press distributed and written in partnership with MOGSLF

Emily Epperson from Braymer, MO and Christian McLean from Chillicothe, MO were two of 60 collegiate students nominated to represent North Central Missouri College at the 39th Annual Missouri Governor’s Student Leadership Forum (MOGSLF) this past weekend. The Forum provided students from across the state with an incredible opportunity to learn from influential leaders in various fields. Hosted at the Missouri State Capital, the event featured a dynamic lineup of speakers, including Governor Mike Kehoe, state legislators, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders, who shared their experiences, wisdom, and insights with the next generation of leaders.

The weekend also offered ample networking opportunities, where students engaged in meaningful conversations with the speakers and one another, exchanging ideas and forming connections that may serve them throughout their personal and professional journeys.

Emily Epperson said, “I think what I thought about the MOGSLF, was that going into it I didn’t know what I was doing there, but it really was a learning experience and I got to meet very amazing people in my small group and at the event in general. My favorite thing would have to be the Jefferson City Correctional Center, I felt like I learned so much more than what I was expecting when I saw it on the agenda, and it was a real eye opening event. Being able to go and attend this forum was amazing and I’m really grateful for the opportunity because of how much I learned within just 3 days. You learn a lot about leadership and hearing preachers speak about faith and putting that into leadership really inspired me.”

The 2026 Missouri Governor’s Student Leadership Forum equipped students with the tools, resources, and motivation to become the next generation of leaders in Missouri and beyond. As students left the forum, they were empowered to take what they had learned and apply it to their communities, schools, and personal lives.

Christian McLean said, “The Forum was not what I was expecting. I expected a professional business esc atmosphere and it was a lot more personal with small groups. Which in turn lead to a lot of personal growth along with relational growth. I made some friends there through the vulnerability of small groups that I expect to keep for a long time in my life. The key to being a good and faithful leader is definitely the relationships we make through these roles. Definitely an eye opening experience that I think would benefit anyone if they went.”

The event began in 1988 under the leadership of former Missouri Governor and 79th U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft.

For more information about the Missouri Governor’s Student Leadership Forum and upcoming events, visit www.missourigslf.com, call (573) 691-7572 or e-mail [email protected]

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Photo 1: Emily Epperson and Christian McLean
Photo 2: MOGSLF participants