By Blake Jackson
Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP), in collaboration with Dr. Richard “Biff” Williams, President of the Missouri State System, and the Missouri State Foundation, will hold a dedication ceremony for the new Wulff-Risner Agriculture Science Center. The event is scheduled for Friday, April 4, at 2 p.m. at 911 Creamery Road.
This center is being established to honor Dr. Linda Wulff-Risner, a long-time agriculture professor who has contributed significantly to MSU-WP. She generously donated her 40-acre farm, known as Risner Stables, to support and expand the university’s agriculture programs. The facility is named the Wulff-Risner Agriculture Science Center in recognition of the Wulff and Risner families’ dedication to education and service.
“Linda’s passion for teaching and agriculture is evident in everything she does at Missouri State-West Plains,” said MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster. “Her generous gift ensures that her love for students and agriculture will continue to impact lives for generations to come. Her vision has become our vision.”
The newly dedicated Wulff-Risner Agriculture Science Center will serve as the main site for MSU-WP’s applied learning courses in animal and plant sciences. The facility will consolidate existing agriculture programs into one location, providing students with improved access to resources and training. The property features two large stables, offices, a tack room, a hay barn, storage and kennel areas, and a 7,200-square-foot indoor riding arena. These additions will support current programs and allow for future growth.
“This donation is truly transformative for our agriculture programs,” said Dr. Michael Orf, vice chancellor of academic affairs. “It will significantly expand the hands-on learning opportunities available to our students, allowing us to offer more comprehensive training and develop new programs.”
Wulff-Risner has been a dedicated educator at MSU-WP for nearly three decades, teaching full-time and as a per-course instructor. She has also supported scholarships, library initiatives, athletics, and the veterinary program. In recognition of her contributions, she received a Platinum Medallion in 2024.
“My hope is that this gift will provide future agriculture students with the opportunity to learn through hands-on experiences and hard work,” said Wulff-Risner. “It has always been my goal for this property to be a positive part of the community and a resource for agriculture education now and for years to come.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Missouri, Education