MoWest students go international at SIGGRAPH computer graphics conference

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Three lucky students from Missouri Western State University closed out the summer on an international stage at the SIGGRAPH 2025 conference in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

"It really feels like it's given me a jump start on my career," said Kylee Derr, a senior digital animation student who went on the trip. "Being able to talk to industry professionals and recruiters and being able to have all of that community feedback was really nice. It was a great experience. "

SIGGRAPH is considered the world’s premier conference on computer graphics and interactive techniques. Top talent, researchers and industry leaders from across the globe attend each year.

The students represented MoWest’s Digital Animation program, highlighting the skills and dedication being developed in the program.

"It definitely showed me that I had more opportunities within the career field than I originally thought," said Eliza Kuker, another senior digital animation student who went on the trip. "There were many unique places there that I would have never assumed had animation positions. It really showed me that I can go in any direction I really want to."

More information about Digital Animation at MoWest can be found on the university's website.