Inside Mside

Inside Mside Episode 58: Christmas at Morningside

Join host Alisanne Struck as she sits down with Dr. Ryan Person, Director of Choral Activities, for a special Christmas at Morningside episode of Inside Mside.
One of Morningside’s most treasured traditions, Christmas at Morningside has brought music lovers together since 1995 and remains a beloved seasonal highlight across the Midwest. This year’s theme — “Heal Our World, Great Prince of Peace” — sets the tone for a powerful and uplifting celebration of hope, unity, and artistry from our talented performers.
Buy tickets and learn more about what makes this event so meaningful for our campus and community here: https://www.morningside.edu/student-life-and-arts/arts-at-morningside/performing-arts/christmas-at-morningside

Inside Mside Episode 57: Dr. Chase Privett encourages more civic engagement!

Dr. Chase Privett, Morningside assistant professor of political science, joins Zach James to talk student engagement, civic leadership, and the Morningside Civic Union’s impact on campus and beyond.

Inside Mside Episode 56: Tim Jager’s New Game Plan at Morningside

Former Mustang athletic director Tim Jager is back — this time as Director of Athletic Advancement. He shares what it means to return to Morningside, how he plans to elevate the student-athlete experience, and the vision for the next era of Mustang facilities and support.

Inside Mside No. 55: How Morningside started Craig Doty's championship path

Before the college basketball season begins, Craig Doty '10 joins us to reflect on his career, including his time as a student-athlete at Morningside.
A three-time national champion and National Coach of the Year, Doty has built winners at every stop. Now in his second year leading Houston Christian University, Doty has elevated the Huskies on and off the court - from program growth and record attendance to academic excellence and community impact.

Inside Mside Episode 54: Dr. Jessica Pleuss shares her first book, "Sharing My Family"

In this episode, Alisanne Struck discusses the children's book "Sharing My Family," with Morningside psychology professor, author and illustrator Dr. Jessica Pleuss.
Told through the eyes of an 8-year-old named Zee, the story shows how becoming a foster family can turn life upside down — and how imagination and empathy can help kids adjust to big changes.
Written in both English and Spanish, "Sharing My Family" is designed for children ages 4–10, especially those experiencing foster care in their own families or learning about it through friends. It’s also a valuable tool for parents, teachers, social workers, psychologists, and child care providers who support children connected to the foster system.
This book marks the first release in Pleuss’s Family For Now: Books About Foster Care series, offering young readers and families an honest, empathetic resource to guide conversations about fostering.

Inside Mside Episode 53: Office of Sponsored Programs brings in $947,500 in grants

Alex Watters '09 chats with Dr. Brian McFarland about the several grants Morningside has acquired, thanks to Brian and his staff! Find out where the $947,500 over four grants is going to enhance the students, staff and community experience!

Inside Mside Episode 51: Learn about our Peer Mentors program with Stacie Hays and Katie Koithan!

Alisanne Struck chats with Stacie Hays and Katie Koithan about the Peer Mentors program at Morningside. Peer Mentors are all about helping new Mustangs find their footing. By building real connections and offering personalized support, they’re here to make sure every student feels at home— and has the tools and confidence to thrive at Morningside.

Inside Mside Episode 50: What goes into the admissions process?

Alisanne Struck sits down with Steph Peters '99 and Steven Ricke for a behind-the-scenes look at the powerhouse Morningside University admissions team that just brought in record-breaking enrollment. Hear what’s working, what’s changing, and how Morningside continues to raise the bar.

Inside Mside Episode 49: There's always something going on in the agriculture department!

Zach James is joined by Melissa Nelson and RC Hicks to share the successes of the  Applied Agriculture and Food Studies Department, including the "She Grows" women's leadership event, the Mside Beef program, and more! 

Inside Mside Special Edition: Part 2 with Interim President Chad Benson

In Part 2 of his conversation with Alex Watters ’09, Morningside Interim President Chad Benson ’90 shares his goals, big-picture vision, and a heartfelt call for support from the Morningside community. Don’t miss this important discussion!