SEMO Graduate Uses Leadership, Hands-On Learning to Launch Next Chapter in Special Education

From serving as Sigma Nu chapter president to vice president of the Student Government Association, Breece spent his college years building community while preparing for a career in special education.

Now, the Gideon, Missouri, native is preparing for his next step: pursuing a master's degree in applied behavior analysis at the University of Missouri as he works toward becoming a board certified behavior analyst.

Breece graduated Saturday with a degree in exceptional child: mild/moderate cross categorical and a certificate in autism studies from Southeast Missouri State University's Department of Elementary, Early and Special Education.

A second-generation SEMO student, Breece said his time at the University helped shape him both personally and professionally.

"SEMO has taught me leadership, integrity, service and meaningful involvement both on and off campus," said Breece.

Throughout his time at SEMO, Breece served as president of Sigma Nu and Iota Chi, vice president of the Student Government Association, a Presidential Ambassador and treasurer for Order of Omega. He also served as Greek Week chapter coordinator and participated in several additional campus organizations.

As Sigma Nu chapter president, Breece helped lead the organization to earn the Interfraternity Council Chapter of the Year Award.

His leadership and campus involvement earned recognition across the University community, including being named runner-up for SEMO Man of the Year, receiving the Greek Heart Award and being recognized as IFC President of the Year.

While deeply involved on campus, Breece also focused on preparing for the classroom.

One accomplishment he said he is especially proud of was passing his certification exam to teach K-12 special education on his first attempt.

"Dr. McCollum and Mrs. Schaffner played a big part in that and were great professors," Breece said.

During his student teaching experience, Breece said he realized how much the program had prepared him to work with students with diverse needs.

"I believe I've made a lasting impact on my students," he wrote. "The special education program has been nothing short of amazing, teaching me to grow as a leader and become a stronger educator."

Breece said the relationships and experiences he gained at SEMO will stay with him long after graduation.

"Without SEMO, I wouldn't have been able to grow as a leader or find the friends I will have for a lifetime," he said.

At SEMO, education students gain classroom experience, leadership opportunities and faculty mentorship that prepare them to support students and families in schools and communities across the region. Learn more at semo.edu/education-health.

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