Southeast Missouri State University is working with the Cape Girardeau. Jackson and Sikeston Region Chambers of Commerce to welcome students to networking and business events and highlight their attendance.
SEMO’s Division of Economic and Workforce Development is spearheading the efforts with the chambers.
“This is a big step in making sure students feel included in the community, and students have the ability to network with local companies and employers," said Dan Presson, assistant vice president of Economic and Workforce Development. “Local chambers of commerce are essential to getting students connected with internships and employment opportunities. Chamber members are a welcoming group of people; we hope that when they see a SEMO student who wants to network and learn, they’re excited to connect.
Soon Chamber members will see SEMO nametags at the entrances to future events. These branded nametags, when worn by a SEMO student, represent a chance for chamber members to meet someone new and network. Chamber events would include, luncheons, networking-style events that are hosted in the region, such as First Friday Coffees or Business After Hours. Students are encouraged to register for events via Handshake.
“With a specialized name tag, we want engaged chamber members to notice a Southeast student who might be there for the first time and possibly without a support system," Presson said. "Students attending events are there to network, talk and learn. By giving them a specialized Southeast Missouri State University name tag, it will allow chamber members to see them and welcome them to the event.”
The overall goal is to help Southeast students get connected with local businesses and entrepreneurs.
“It is vitally important to make business connections while you are in college,” said Brian Gerau, president of the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce. “Upon graduation, and during that job search, it is beneficial to have a history of business connections in the field you are looking to be employed in. It is also easier for to land a position when the employer is familiar with the applicant, and this can be done through networking and community involvement.”
“This entire region is a part of a Southeast Missouri State University student's education," Presson said. "Our region is rich with unique opportunities for students to build real-world experiecnes, and hopefully find full-time careers that keep talent locally after graduation. This is just another step to help the community and chamber members network with our Southeast students."
Southeast’s Division of Economic and Workforce Development helps foster business and workforce development in the region by combining institutional knowledge and resources to create new, high-value jobs, generate economic and social benefits, and advance entrepeneurship. The office includes the Office of Career Services, Law Enforcement Academy and Small Business Development Center. The Regional Professional Development Center offers professional development opportunities to educators across southeast Missouri.