Missouri Western Students Shine at SIGGRAPH 2025 Conference

Three students from Missouri Western State University showcased their talents on an international platform at the SIGGRAPH 2025 conference, held in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This event, recognized as the world’s leading conference on computer graphics and interactive techniques, provided an invaluable opportunity for students to engage with industry professionals and explore career prospects.

Kylee Derr, a senior majoring in digital animation, expressed her enthusiasm about the experience. “It really feels like it’s given me a jump start on my career,” she stated. Derr noted the significance of interacting with industry recruiters and receiving community feedback, emphasizing that the experience was both enriching and inspiring.

The conference attracted top talent, researchers, and industry leaders from around the globe, making it a prime venue for networking and learning. Eliza Kuker, another senior from the Digital Animation program, shared her insights after attending the conference. “It definitely showed me that I had more opportunities within the career field than I originally thought,” Kuker remarked. She discovered various unexpected avenues in animation that broadened her perspective on potential career paths.

The participation of these students highlights the commitment and skill development fostered in MoWest’s Digital Animation program. The program aims to prepare students for the evolving demands of the animation industry, equipping them with the tools necessary to succeed in diverse roles.

For those interested in learning more about the Digital Animation program at Missouri Western State University, additional information is available on the university’s official website. The experiences of Derr and Kuker at SIGGRAPH 2025 not only reflect their personal growth but also underscore the university’s dedication to fostering talent in the creative fields.