North Central Missouri College students have elected Crista Perry of Salisbury, Missouri, as Student Senate President for the 2026-2027 academic year. Joining her on the Student Senate Executive Team are Max Heintz, Vice President, and Kenzie Milligan, Secretary. Additional Student Senate representatives will be elected during the semester.
Crista is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree along with a Livestock Management Certificate and is expected to graduate in May 2027.
In addition to her role as Student Senate President, Perry serves as Vice President of Student Recruitment for the Ag Club and is a member of the NCMC Livestock Judging Team. Her interest in livestock judging played a significant role in her decision to attend NCMC.
“As the only community college in Missouri to offer livestock judging, NCMC was a perfect fit for me,” Perry said. “I wanted to be part of the Livestock Judging Team, but I was also drawn to the small-town atmosphere. The instructors provide the same high-quality education you would find at larger universities while creating a close-knit and supportive environment.”
One of Perry’s favorite places on campus is the Nuttall Student Center, where students gather for activities, events, and social connections.
“I enjoy seeing students come together in the Student Center,” Perry said. “The caf is great, and it’s always exciting to see people building friendships and getting involved in campus activities.”
Dr. Kristen Alley, Vice President of Student Affairs, said, “This will be an exciting year for Student Senate, with representation from across our campus and throughout the region. The Student Senate executive team had the opportunity to meet this summer for a retreat, where they set goals, discussed programming, and explored new ways to engage students. Under Crista’s leadership as Student Senate President and with the involvement and dedication of the entire executive team, the 2026–2027 academic year will be another incredible year for Student Senate.”
As Student Senate President, Perry will serve as the voice of the student body and play an important role in NCMC’s shared governance process. Student Senate provides student representation on issues related to campus growth, development, and institutional decision-making.
Perry said one of the organization’s primary goals this year is increasing student involvement across campus.
“I’m looking forward to meeting new students and encouraging them to become involved,” she said. “We want students to know about the many opportunities available to them and help them find organizations, activities, and experiences that match their interests. One initiative we’ve launched is placing QR codes around campus that allow students to submit feedback directly to Student Senate. We’re excited to hear from students and help make a positive impact on their college experience.”
Student Senate serves as the governing body for the NCMC student population, providing leadership for student organizations and clubs while offering input on policies, campus improvements, and future planning initiatives.
Student Senate advisors include Donnie Hillerman, Housing Director and Men’s Baseball Coach; Jessica Maye, Campus Activities Director and Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach; and Dr. Kristen Alley, Vice President of Student Affairs.
For more information about Student Senate or opportunities to get involved at North Central Missouri College, visit www.ncmissouri.edu or call (660) 359-3948.
Photo: Crista Perry