Business View Magazine - April 2024

state, but we have the smallest population.” Klaver attributes this success to the institution’s dedication to its mission and vision—a commitment that has been steadfast throughout his tenure and that of his predecessor. Anchoring NCMC’s philosophy is a culture of responsibility and a focus on student welfare. Klaver emphasizes the institution’s “uncommon attention” to its student body—a sentiment echoed in its approach to fostering relationships with donors, securing state funding, and engaging with the broader community. Through intentional efforts to expand its footprint and deepen its connections, NCMC has cultivated a reputation for excellence beyond its physical campus. Klaver paints a picture of NCMC’s achievements, and it becomes evident that the institution’s success is measured in numbers or accolades and in the tangible impact it has on the lives of its students and the communities it serves.With a commitment to fiscal responsibility and a strategic vision for future growth—including the recent opening of a satellite campus in Savannah, Missouri—NCMC stands ready to continue its upward trajectory, propelled by legacy and a relentless pursuit of academic innovation. NAVIGATING THE PANDEMIC Undoubtedly, one of the most formidable challenges of recent times has been the global COVID-19 pandemic. Klaver reflects on NCMC’s response to this crisis, highlighting the institution’s rural setting as both a challenge and an opportunity. Leveraging well-developed distance education systems, NCMC seamlessly transitioned to online learning platforms, ensuring continuity of education for its students.With an infrastructure and a commitment to accessibility, NCMC expanded its online offerings, empowering students to engage in flexible learning experiences tailored to their needs. Yet, COVID-19 was not the only hurdle NCMC faced. Klaver identifies funding constraints as a perennial challenge, underscoring the institution’s shift from state-supported to state-assisted funding models. In a landscape where public funding for education remains strained, NCMC has proactively engaged with legislators and policymakers to advocate for increased financial support. Through strategic 79 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 04 NORTH CENTRAL MISSOURI COLLEGE