William Woods University College Algebra class

“Triumph Program” partnership between William Woods and Missouri Military Academy shows growth

31 MMA cadets now taking college courses taught by William Woods faculty

When classes for the fall 2020 semester began last week at William Woods University (WWU), one of the areas of enrollment growth on campus was in a program that is a unique partnership between WWU and Missouri Military Academy (MMA).

William Woods University College Algebra class

31 MMA cadets are taking college courses this fall, up from 22 last year, in the third year of the partnership between WWU and MMA. Through the Triumph Program, qualifying cadets can finish high school with nearly two years of college under their belt. William Woods faculty teach select Triumph Program college classes to cadets both on the William Woods campus in Fulton and on the MMA campus in Mexico.   

“We are pleased to see the growth in the Triumph Program, where we partner with MMA to provide a great opportunity for student cadets to learn the self-discipline it takes to perform academically at the college level – while still in high school,” said Scott Zimmerman, Instructor of Leadership and Military Studies at William Woods. “Students get to in effect start their college career while still in high school – under the instruction of our quality faculty at William Woods.”

Starting their college careers while still in high school allows students to save time and money, as MMA college courses reduce their cost and time in college, post-high school. Courses offered include Calculus, College Algebra, English Composition, Leadership, Speech and History. By participating in the Triumph Program, cadets demonstrate to top colleges and universities their ability to complete and master college-level work.

William Woods University College Algebra class

“Our goal is to help young men take command of their futures, and the Triumph Program gives them a unique opportunity to reach their full academic potential beyond traditional dual-credit classes,” said MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret). “Our cadets learn and earn college credit through a true college academic experience by directly interacting with William Woods faculty, and we are proud to provide qualified cadets this experience.”

The Triumph Program is another example of William Woods’ proud status as an official Military Friendly university. Cost, support services, career services, and flexibility – all hallmarks of the WWU experience – are among the most important factors in college decision making for veterans. William Woods’ online and part-time study options, as well as the freedom to start and stop as needed, provide the flexibility students need to finish their degrees as their schedule allows. In addition, William Woods is one of five universities in the state of Missouri to offer the Show-Me Guard Officer Leadership Development (GOLD) program, which trains and provides commissioned officers for the Missouri Army National Guard.