Volume 43 | May 2024
The Pensioner: In the Moment
Welcome to the digital MPERS newsletter! The Pensioner: In the Moment contains news, updates, and important information for retirees of the Missouri Department of Transportation, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and MPERS.
MPERS Adds Two New Team Members
MPERS welcomed two new team members within recent weeks.
Alexandra Sawyer joined MPERS in March and is the Administrative Assistant for the Executive Director’s office.

She acts as the office receptionist, greeting individuals in person and over the phone. She handles incoming correspondence and ensures that items are distributed in a manner that supports timely resolution.

Alexandra’s general responsibilities include assisting accounts payable, benefits and payroll staff, and tracking member communications. 
Melissa Gourd joined MPERS in April as our new Board Administrator.

She will be the liaison between staff and the board and will provide the support required for the board to function efficiently. Melissa brings a wealth of experience in public service to MPERS. 
Despite uncertainty with potential rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, MPERS’ overall fund performance remains very healthy.

The investment staff is managing the uncertainty of the market very well with the estimated Fiscal Year 2023 return (July 1 – April 15) standing at 9.0%, and longer-term numbers remaining well above actuarial and policy benchmarks. 
Legislative Update
At the time of this publication, the legislature is still in session and will adjourn on May 17th. The House and Senate pension committees continue to hold hearings and at this point, no bills have reached a level of discussion for the MPERS’ Board. We will continue to monitor activity until the session ends.

A complete legislative update will be provided in the June newsletter.
May Events
  • 8 - Truman Day, office open
  • 15 - Deadline to submit direct deposit and/or tax withholding changes Complete changes here
  • 27 - Memorial Day, office closed
  • 31 - Payday for benefit recipients
We value your feedback!
What would you like to see in The Pensioner: In the Moment?
Send comments and suggestions to Julie.West@mpers.org.