UMSL Chancellor Tom George has talked to more than 1,000 middle and high school students this academic year as part of the Show Me Value Tour, a statewide initiative by the UM System to discuss the importance of a college education. (Photo by August Jennewein)

“I heard you couldn’t go to college from an unaccredited school. Is that true?”

Like being hit by lightning, University of Missouri–St. Louis Chancellor Tom George jumped to his feet.

“Not true. Not true,” he said, arms waving and voice slightly heightened. “We judge the individual for admission, not the school. We look at grades, test scores and other activities. And you seem like a really bright guy. We’d love to see your application at UMSL in a few years.”

The sixth-grade student from Normandy Middle School seemed relieved, as did the 100 or so classmates who joined him to hear George explain why college was a goal worth pursuing.

George’s visit was part of the Show Me Value Tour, a statewide initiative by the University of Missouri System to discuss the importance of a college education. Overall, George talked to more than 1,000 middle and high school students this past fall and spring from Normandy High School, McCluer High School, Hazelwood East High School, Hazelwood Northwest Middle School and Normandy Middle School.

Among the messages George shared were statistics showing individuals with advanced education live longer, have greater career options and make more money – on average $3.4 million over a lifetime with a bachelor’s degree as compared to $1.7 million with just a high school diploma.

Alan Byrd, UMSL’s dean of enrollment services, joined Chancellor Tom George on the Show Me Value Tour. (Photo by August Jennewein)

Joining George was UMSL’s dean of enrollment services, Alan Byrd, who talked about admissions criteria, scholarships and degree options.

“Those of you who study hard and do well in school … can go to college,” Byrd said. “There are lots of options for you.”

George said he preferred that everyone consider nearby UMSL as a first option, but like Byrd he emphasized that accredited technical schools, community colleges and other four-year schools also are viable avenues for a better future.

“The first step is do well right here, and then move on to a higher education institution that best fits your career goals,” George said.

Several UMSL alumni, supporters and elected officials stopped by to support George’s message that “college is worth the effort.” Among those individuals were Florissant Mayor Tom Schneider, who talked about the virtues of education in general and UMSL specifically. Two of Schneider’s three children graduated from UMSL.

The Show Me Value Tour was established by UM System President Tim Wolfe in 2013 as a way to highlight the benefits of going to college. The effort has been replicated by the four chancellors of the UM System.