Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'A-' long-term rating to Missouri Southern State University's (MSSU) series 2014A and 2014B revenue bonds. In addition, Standard&Poor's affirmed its outstanding 'A-' rating on MSSU's outstanding series 2008 auxiliary enterprise system revenue bonds. The outlook for all ratings is stable. The rating reflects continued rebound in enrollment for fall 2013 following a devastating tornado in Joplin that caused a decrease in headcount for fall 2011 and 2012. Moreover, the rating reflects increasing retention rates for fall 2013. The university recorded a full accrual deficit in fiscal 2013, the result of a two-year dip in enrollment following a severe tornado in May 2011, that caused job dislocation and student displacement after off-campus
