March 01, 2026
Event highlighted the many opportunities Mizzou students have to engage with industry and acquire career-ready skills through hands-on learning.
More than 200 engineering student leaders from universities across the United States attended the National Association of Engineering Student Councils Executive Leadership Summit (ELS) Feb. 26-March 1 at Mizzou.
The Mizzou Engineering Student Council (MESC) hosted the event.
“Hosting is an opportunity for us to showcase not only where we go to school, but also the strong community we’ve built around us,” MESC President Emily Omohundro said. “It allows us to highlight our campus culture, local partnerships and the collaborative spirit that defines MESC.”
Mizzou Engineering Dean Marisa Chrysochoou highlighted the exchange of innovative ideas at the summit.
“This summit is a platform for engineering students to strengthen their student councils, expand their professional networks and cultivate leadership skills,” she said. “It’s exciting to see that energy here at Mizzou and to contribute in a tangible way to the future of our profession.”
Attendees toured the MU Research Reactor, NextGen Research Facility and the MU Power Plant. They also attended industry presentations by the Missouri Department of Transportation, Emery Sapp and Sons, Clayco and other sponsors.
Showcases gave delegates a well-rounded look at what Mizzou Engineering offers, including competition teams, student organizations, and advanced study and research opportunities.
Praveen Edara, chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and W. David Arnold, executive director of NextGen Precision Health, shared their expertise and insights in keynote addresses, highlighting the depth of knowledge and research at Mizzou.
Jenna Skidmore, MESC vice president external, said the impact of this event would extend well beyond just one weekend at Mizzou.
“Engineering student councils play a critical role in strengthening engineering culture and supporting students in what can often feel like a demanding and overwhelming field,” she said. “Bringing together student representatives from across the country creates space for collaboration, idea-sharing and meaningful dialogue about how we can better serve our peers.”
Discover more ways Mizzou Engineering sets students up for success.