MSSU opens Edward Jones center

The university announced Friday the opening of the Edward Jones Investment Center, located on campus in Matthews Hall. Software on 30 new computers allows students to invest $300,000 while learning the dynamics of financial markets and risk management.

The software simulates placing buy and sell orders and portfolio management. Other lab features include an electronic ticker for equity indices, two television monitors with cable programming, a projector and Smartboard screen, and one or more workstations for financial databases such as Bloomberg and Reuters.

The center is made possible by a grant from the Missouri Southern Foundation and contributions from more than 50 Edward Jones investment representatives and home office general partners.

MSSU will dedicate the center March 17 to alumnus Jim Goodknight, a pioneer investment representative for Edward Jones in the region. Goodknight developed a training plan to enhance client service, now used throughout the firm and the industry, and in 1997 received the company's Touchstone Award for outstanding service.