There are many reasons why we enjoy our work with Southeast Missouri State University; however, the relationship that exists between the members of the Cape Girardeau community and our students is among the most important.

Each year the members of the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce and the local business community demonstrate their commitment to our students through New Student Move-In Day and the Southeast Welcome Back Picnic. This year was no different as the Chamber, along with more than 70 local businesses, helped the university as we opened our doors to thousands of new and returning students.

This year the university residence halls are home to more than 3,100 students. These residential students, along with their peers who live in the Cape Girardeau area, are fortunate to be part of a city where they are readily welcomed by the members of our community and supported by our local businesses. It is because of this community and business support that our students feel at home when they arrive in Cape Girardeau.

We want to say a special thank you for the continual support to the Chamber and its many members in welcoming our students to the Cape Girardeau community. Whether serving food at the picnic, assisting in the recruitment of vendors for different events, or providing resources for students, the Chamber continues to play a key role in welcoming students to our community.

On behalf of the many students who are now members of our community, we want to thank the city of Cape Girardeau, its residents and businesses for the great community our students are calling home.

Dr. Bruce Skinner is the Office of Residence Life director at Southeast Missouri State University, and Dr. Theresa Haug-Belvin is the Student Transitions director at the university.