Story by Kaiya Lynch
Photos by Logan Jackson
For Jim Spain, education has always been about more than grades or career preparation. It is about curiosity and the responsibility that comes with learning.
Spain, vice provost for undergraduate studies and professor of animal sciences at the University of Missouri, has spent decades working to shape undergraduate education. Spain’s academic background is rooted in dairy nutrition and management, but his impact at Mizzou stretches far beyond animal science. Since 2007, he has served as vice provost for undergraduate studies, supporting initiatives aimed at improving student success across campus.
His involvement in the Honors College began through collaboration with program leadership and eventually grew into teaching Honors College Tutorials. What started as a two-semester course sequence has since expanded into a four-semester experience, allowing Spain to work closely with students over an extended period.
That close interaction is what he values most.
“When you’re working with four or five students, it’s easier to see the ‘aha’ moment,” Spain said. “You get to see them connect pieces of information and apply them in new ways.”
In his tutorial, Spain uses dairy cows as a model to teach students about rumen biology, nutrition and environmental factors affecting animal health. Students often begin the course with little background in animal science, but Spain watches as they gradually build understanding and confidence.
Spain believes the Honors College plays a unique role in fostering intellectual curiosity at Mizzou. He described the program as both a community of scholars and an incubator for new ideas.
“The Honors College offers a community of students who are intellectually curious and interested in learning at a deeper level,” Spain said. “It provides an environment for both students and faculty to pursue ideas in meaningful ways.”
Spain encourages Honors College students to embrace opportunities that expand their perspectives, whether through research, study abroad or internships.
“To provide the greatest benefit to society, we need to continue to learn,” Spain said. “Nurture your intellectual curiosity and pursue experiences that challenge you.”