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THE MAGAZINE PUBLISHED FOR THE ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY n VOL. 8 ISSUE 1 SPRING 2013 Promises KEPT. Thank you for making University history: Our largest-ever campaign exceeds its ambitious goal!

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The magazine published for the alumni and friends of Missouri State University. Vol. 8 Issue 1

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Page 1: Missouri State University alumni magazine

THE MAGAZINE PUBLISHED FOR THE ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY n VOL. 8 ISSUE 1

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Promises KEPT.Thank you for making University history:

Our largest-ever campaign exceeds its ambitious goal!

Page 2: Missouri State University alumni magazine

2 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Page 3: Missouri State University alumni magazine

ON THE COVER: Students, professors, staff members and everyone at MSU thanks you for your contributions to the Our Promise campaign! PHOTOGRAPH BY KEVIN WHITE

FEATURES

16SEE THE UNIVERSE AT BAKER OBSERVATORY Missouri State’s facility near Marshfield holds a NASA Public Observing Night each spring and fall. The public is invited to view planets, galaxies, star systems and other celestial objects through the many telescopes available at the events.

24ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME EVENTSEight people, including six former student-athletes, were inducted into the Hall of Fame this February. In addition, the jersey of former Coach Cheryl Burnett was retired, and former Coach Dr. Mary Jo Wynn was honored for her many contributions to women’s athletics at MSU.

8‘THINK BIGGER AND BOLDER’Clif Smart has officially taken the reins as the 11th president of Missouri State University. Smart said he is glad he already knows the campus and community because it allows him to get to work quickly on his goals for the University.

Publisher: Missouri State University, Office of Publications Editors: Stacey Funderburk, Michelle S. Rose

Designer: Amy Schuldt Alumni Notes Editors: Debbie Branson, Julie Ebersold, Candice Wolf

Photographers: John Wall, Kevin White Writers: Ben Adamson, Aaron Baker, Tim Bohn, Jessica Clements,

Eric Doennig, Doug Gaehle, Don Hendricks, Paul Kincaid, Rick Kindhart, Stephanie Matthews, Andrea Mostyn, Don Payton, Clif Smart, Mark Stillwell

Office of Development and Alumni RelationsJulie Ebersold, Executive Director of Alumni RelationsDenise Kettering, Director of Advancement Services

Melanie Earl, Director of Annual FundsJenny Crews, Director of Prospect Management and ResearchWendy Ferguson, Director of Planned and Corporate Giving

Stephanie Lashley, Director of Donor RelationsDebbie Branson, Assistant Director of Alumni Activities

Candice Wolf, Assistant Director of Alumni ActivitiesRenee Fogle, Alumni Special Projects Coordinator

Angela Pinegar, Assistant Director of Advancement ServicesCheryl Burnett, Director of Development

Keri McKee, Director of DevelopmentDick Laird, Director of DevelopmentDon Swift, Director of Development

Michael Whitley, Director of DevelopmentKevin Greim, Senior Director of Athletics DevelopmentAndrew Garton, Foundation Scholarship Coordinator

Phone: 417-836-4143 Fax: 417-836-6886

Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

Joe Kammerer, Director of Development, Missouri State-West Plains Campus

Phone: 417-255-7240 Fax: 417-255-7241

Email: [email protected]

Alumni Board of DirectorsJeremiah Mee, President, ’93, Springfield

Marilyn Bueker, ’76, SpringfieldJim Cantrell, ’62, Springfield

Kim Carlos, ’94, Kansas City, Mo. Al Ellison, ’58, Springfield

Mary Kay Frazier, ’83, Springfield Brent Hanks, ’89, Ozark, Mo.

Beverly Miller, ’73, Lebanon, Mo. Zach Porting, student, Jefferson City, Mo.

Molly Reddick, student, Springfield

Foundation Board of TrusteesOfficers

Bill E. Hixon, Chair, SpringfieldRich Young, Vice Chair, Arlington, Mass.Mary McQueary, Secretary, Springfield

Steve Foucart, Treasurer (ex-officio)Executive Committee

Ethel Curbow, SpringfieldRobert Fulp, SpringfieldMike Ingram, SpringfieldTim O’Reilly, SpringfieldPat Sechler, Springfield

Scott Tarwater, SpringfieldEx-Officio

Clif Smart, President, Missouri State UniversityGordon Elliott, Member, Board of Governors, Missouri State University

Executive DirectorBrent Dunn, Vice President for University Advancement

Phone: 417-836-4143Fax: 417-836-6886

Email: [email protected]

Missouri State is published three times a year by the Missouri State University Alumni Association, Missouri State University, 901 S. National Ave.,

Springfield, MO 65897.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Missouri State, Office of Alumni Relations, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897

Missouri State University adheres to a strict nondiscrimination policy and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability or veteran status in any program or activity offered or

sponsored by the University. Prohibited sex discrimination encompasses sexual harassment, which includes sexual violence. In addition, the University

does not discriminate on any basis (including, but not limited to, political affiliation and sexual orientation) not related to the applicable educational

requirements for students or the applicable job requirements for employees.

Printed with soy ink. ALM 030 13

10MEET THE HOMECOMING HONOREESLearn more about the five winners of the Missouri State University Alumni Association awards for 2012.

18PROMISES KEPTOur Promise, the most ambitious fundraising campaign in the history of Missouri State University, has exceeded its goal of $125 million — thanks to the combined efforts of more than 70,000 donors.

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 3

Page 4: Missouri State University alumni magazine

4 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Journagan family presented with Bronze BearThe Journagan family was selected as the recipient of the 2012 Bronze Bear Award, the highest nonacademic award the University presents, in honor of the family’s significant support of Missouri State.

The Journagans have been involved with Missouri State for more than 20

years. They have supported the University through gifts to the William H. Darr Agriculture Center, Robert W. Plaster Sports Complex, intercollegiate athletics, KSMU and Ozarks Public Television.

In 2010, the family donated their ranch, encompassing more than 3,000 acres of land, to Missouri State. n

Beverly Jean and Leo Journagan (center), shown with their son, Allen, and daughter, Jill, were on campus to accept the 2012 Bronze Bear award.

Two new campus features dedicated during Homecoming 2012

The ceremonies for the Bill R. Foster and Family Recreation Center and the Michael T. Nietzel Plaza included remarks by University officials and unveiling of commemorative plaques.

Recreation Center ‘will provide incredible opportunities’“I am so pleased that this facility has the Foster name attached to it, because the Fosters have been supporters of the University for many decades and have always had the well-being of students as a priority,” said Brent Dunn, vice president for university advancement. “I also appreciate the other donors, like Bobby Allison, who have been generous with their gifts to make this facility a reality.”

The Foster Recreation Center is a 100,000-square-foot, $30 million facility. The project was initiated in 2006 by student leaders, designed with the help of students and funded through a student fee and private contributions.

“The Recreation Center is another great example of how donors like Mr. Foster and the Foster family can have a positive impact on students,” said Missouri State President Clif Smart.

“This facility will provide incredible opportunities for many generations of Missouri State students. It is an honor to have the Foster family name on this facility.”

Plaza named for University’s ninth president The Michael T. Nietzel Plaza recognizes Nietzel’s five years of service to Missouri State as the University’s ninth president.

The plaza is adjacent to the Foster Recreation Center and commemorates Nietzel’s role in guiding the facility through the planning stages and into the construction phase.

“Dr. Nietzel had a positive impact on the University during his five years, and he certainly had a great influence on me personally,” said Smart. “I am extremely pleased we could honor him in this way, especially given the way in which he guided the center from a dream to a reality.” n

Student featured in MTV showA Missouri State student was recently the subject of the MTV show “MADE,” and the show was filmed around campus and Springfield.

Chinesa Rusch, a senior who wants to be an English teacher, requested to be “made” into a salsa dancer when the show came to campus for auditions.

“Up ’til now, I’ve never had much confidence,” Rusch said during the episode. She described herself as shy and not able to talk to guys.

Rusch met her goal of learning to dance thanks to mentoring from a salsa coach and the support of other MSU students, who pitched in to partner with her or give advice about make-up and clothes.

The show was filmed in September and October 2012. The episode first aired on MTV in January.

“Every day of this experience has been a challenge,” she said during the show, “but it’s been so worth it to get me to this amazing point where I never in a million years would have thought I would be!” n

Online: See the full episode featuring Chinesa, the campus and other MSU students on MTV’s “MADE” site (check for Episode 39, called “Salsa Dancer”): www.mtv.com/shows/made/series.jhtml

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Watch a video of the Journagan family Bronze Bear presentation. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Take a photo tour of the new Foster Recreation Center. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Page 5: Missouri State University alumni magazine

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 5

Board of Governors elects new officers, welcomes new membersThe Board of Governors for Missouri State University elected new officers during its regular fall meeting and Gov. Jay Nixon appointed two new members to the Board in January.

Orvin Kimbrough, St. Louis, was elected chair. He is the executive vice president for United Way of Greater St.

Louis and represents the first district.Beverly Miller, Lebanon, was elected

vice chair and represents the fourth district. She is the volunteer executive director of the Lebanon office of the American Red Cross.

New to the Board are Joe Carmichael, president and law firm manager of

Carmichael and Neal in Springfield, and Carrie Carroll, owner of Carrie’s Hallmark Shop in Jefferson City.

Carmichael represents the seventh district. His term will run until January 2017.

Carroll represents the third district and will serve until January 2015. n

BearWear now easier to findUniversity’s partnership with a licensing corporation means apparel and accessories are stocked in more stores.

For Missouri State students, alumni and fans, the search for BearWear and accessories has become much easier in recent years thanks to the efforts of MSU’s partnership with Collegiate Licensing Corporation, or CLC.

Since the University joined the CLC family in 2009, the number of retailers carrying Missouri State products has more than tripled, and according to MSU program liaison Art Hains, revenue from the partnership has continued to increase in the past year.

“We were the last school in the (Missouri) Valley to not be represented by a national agency,” said Hains, who works as a marketing specialist for the

University and is also the radio voice of the Bears.

“When we chose to go with CLC, it was knowing that they were the dominant agency in Division I athletics and had a great deal of clout in the marketplace with both manufacturers and retailers.”

The CLC partnership plays a significant role in giving MSU a greater share of the licensed products within the local market. Springfield stores such as Walmart, Target, Walgreens, CVS Pharmacy, Gordmans, Johnny Mac’s Sporting Goods and Bed Bath & Beyond have all added or expanded their amount of Missouri State apparel and accessories.

Battlefield Mall outlets like Lids Locker Room, Finish Line, J.C. Penney, MC Sports and Dillard’s have also begun supporting the hometown team by carrying MSU products as part of their regular inventory rotation.

Hains said several other partners have been added in the past few months, such as Academy Sports + Oudoors, Hy-Vee grocers, Cracker Barrel restaurants, the Silver Dollar City college store and the airport gift shop in Springfield, as well as Rally House in Kansas City.

“These outlets had been carrying branded merchandise of CLC schools, and now we’re one of them,” Hains said.

And while the number of vendors with MSU gear is climbing, not all of the recent brand expansion has been through outside retailers. The CLC partnership has allowed the University’s bookstore — the long-time leader in MSU apparel and accessories — the opportunity to carry a broader range of products from more manufacturers, including adidas.

Likewise, the launching of the revamped MissouriStateBears.com website through CBS Sports has also provided new retail opportunities for Bears fans. The online store is coordinated by Fanatics, Inc., the online apparel partner of both the NCAA and Missouri Valley Conference platforms. n

Shop in person or onlineThe Missouri State Bookstore continues to be the top retailer of Missouri State BearWear, accessories and licensed products. Visit the main store on campus or any of the satellite locations — the Team Store at JQH Arena, Bear Necessities, BearHouse Entertainment, Greek Thing and Paw Prints in the Plaster Student Union. Can’t get to campus? View the complete catalog online to get your gear for BearWear Fridays: www.shop.missouristatebookstore.com

Where’s my BearWear?If BearWear is missing from the shelves of your favorite store, let the manager know you want yours today!

Missouri State University apparel and accessories are now sold at Rally House in Kansas City, as well as many locations around the state, thanks to a partnership with Collegiate Licensing Corporation.

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Page 6: Missouri State University alumni magazine

P R E S I D E N T ’ S M E S S A G E

Dear Alumni and Friends:

I am humbled to be the 11th president of Missouri State University. It is both a tremendous honor and a huge responsibility, which I promise to take seriously every single day as we continue to change lives through education.

As in the past, you can count on me to be guided by the words of President Harry Truman, who said: “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” We will succeed if we have an outstanding team and excellent teamwork.

Working with my administrative team as well as our faculty, staff, students, the community and all of you, here is what we have committed to work on this year and in the future:

Improving the quality of all of our programs, many of which are already outstanding

Aggressively advocating for us in Jefferson City and Washington, D.C.

Engaging our community, our state and the higher education community to create more and better opportunities for our students

Expanding our reputation and our reach throughout the state and region

Improving our facilities and technology

Growing our alumni outreach efforts

Better defining our public affairs mission

Better serving our nontraditional students

Improving student success and access — remembering college cannot just be for the affluent

Finding ways to better tell our story in Missouri, throughout the Midwest and mid-South, and across the country and the world.

There is a lot to be proud of at Missouri State University and I am excited to be its leader. Thank you for your many kind words and your continued support of Missouri State.

Very truly yours,

Clif SmartPresident

Missouri State purchases The Monroe apartment complexMissouri State University has added more than 100 beds to its residence life inventory with the purchase of The Monroe, an apartment-style complex at 1141 E. Monroe St.

The Monroe will increase Missouri State’s on-campus housing capacity from 3,914 to 4,036 and provide students with another housing option. It offers 122 private beds in 42 furnished apartments.

“This is a significant, strategic purchase for us for two reasons,” said Missouri State President Clif Smart.

“First, the purchase of The Monroe eliminates a private piece of property within the campus boundaries. This has been a long-time objective of both our Board of Governors and the administration.

“Second, it addresses our students’ desire to have apartment-style living options on campus. We have made a commitment to refresh our housing inventory to provide more apartment-style housing. This purchase takes a significant step in that direction.” n

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6 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Follow President Clif Smart on Twitter • @CLIFSMARTLinkedin

Delicious Campus Map Go Maroon Magazine

Flickr facebook iTunesU YouTube News Blogs Twitter

For iPhone

See a video of the ceremony introducing Clifton M. “Clif” Smart III as the 11th president of Missouri State University. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Page 7: Missouri State University alumni magazine

Two long-time employees plan to retire; bookstore director namedTwo long-time employees of Missouri State University have announced their retirements: Vice President for Student Affairs Earle Doman and Executive Director of Alumni Relations Julie Ebersold.

“Simply stated, Missouri State is a better University because of the work of Earle Doman and Julie Ebersold,” said Missouri State President Clif Smart. “We will work hard to find replacements for these two key positions, but we will not replace Earle and Julie. It is not possible. They brought a combination of expertise and passion that sets them apart. We will miss them both.”

Doman: University ‘will always remain, for me, a special place’

Doman held a number of student affairs positions at Missouri State from 1976-87, including dean of students-men, associate dean of students and vice president for

student affairs. After serving as the vice president for student services and athletic director at Arkansas Tech in Russellville, Doman returned to Missouri State as the dean of students in 1999. He has served as the vice president for student affairs

since 2008. “Missouri State University has been

and will always remain, for me, a special place,” Doman said. “The vast majority of my employment in higher education has been with Missouri State University. My three sons grew up in this community, my wife received her college degree from Missouri State and this coming fall my oldest granddaughter will begin her college career at Missouri State. Springfield has been for 24 years our home, and it will remain our home.”

A committee will begin a national search immediately for a new vice president to start before classes begin this fall.

Ebersold associated with MSU throughout entire career

Ebersold became the director of alumni relations in 1984. She served in a number of positions at the University since 1975, including office manager of

alumni affairs from 1982-84. “I feel so fortunate to have had the

opportunity to be associated with the University throughout my entire career,” Ebersold said. “It has been an honor to work with the many alumni and friends

who are such loyal members of the Missouri State family.”

The search for Ebersold’s replacement has started.

Sonda Ropp Reinartz named new bookstore director

Sonda Ropp Reinartz began her duties as the new director of the Missouri State University Bookstore in January. She brings with

her decades of experience from eight different campuses.

Since 2006, Reinartz had been the bookstore manager for Augustana College in Illinois. She was the manager for bookstores at Black Hawk College in Illinois from 1996-2006, Hiram College in Ohio from 1991-1994 and Case Western Reserve University in Ohio from 1989-91. Reinartz also worked in bookstore management at the University of Iowa and as an employee of Follett College Stores at George Washington University, SUNY Buffalo and Phoenix College.

Reinartz replaces Mark Brixey, who resigned Aug. 17 amid controversy surrounding missing funds at the bookstore. n

Public Affairs Conference Theme: Inclusive

Excellence April 9-12 www.publicaffairs.

missouristate.edu/

conference

Statewide Collaborative Diversity Conference Theme: Engaging

21st Century Paradigms

of Inclusion April 18-19 www.diversity.

missouristate.edu/

conference

Admissions’ Spring Showcase Open house for high

school juniors, seniors,

transfer students and

their families April 20 www.missouristate.

edu/admissions/

showcase.htm

Spring Commencement May 17 www.missouristate.

edu/commencement

HOMECOMING

2013October 18-19

Don’t miss it!www.alumni.missouristate.

edu/homecoming

AT A GLANCE

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 7

SPRING 2013 ON CAMPUS

Page 8: Missouri State University alumni magazine

‘Think bigger and bolder’

Clif Smart officially takes the reins as president of Missouri State University

8 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

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Follow President Clif Smart on Twitter • @CLIFSMARTLinkedin

Delicious Campus Map Go Maroon Magazine

Flickr facebook iTunesU YouTube News Blogs Twitter

For iPhone

Page 9: Missouri State University alumni magazine

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 9

The “interim” is definitively gone: As of Oct. 16, Clifton M. “Clif” Smart III is the 11th president of Missouri State University.

‘A 16-month, intense, 24/7 job interview’Smart served as interim president for 16 months before officially being chosen for the post. He was one of two candidates who interviewed on campus.

Smart was introduced as the new president in a ceremony Oct. 16 in the Plaster Student Union Theater.

Gordon Elliott, chair of the Board of Governors, told attendees about the search process: “In the end, the Board believed that the 16-month experience the University had with Clif Smart was so positive and productive that it didn’t want to change direction or lose momentum. In many ways, it was the equivalent of a 16-month, intense, 24/7 job interview. Based on his performance during that time, we believe President Smart will lead the University well for many years to come.”

Contract runs through 2018Smart, who comes from the legal profession, joined MSU as general counsel on Dec. 1, 2007. He was named interim president June 27, 2011, when Dr. James E. Cofer Sr., the 10th president, announced plans to return to the faculty.

Smart signed a contract that runs through June 30, 2018, with a first-year salary of $275,000. He also will receive a housing allowance of $40,000 per year in recognition of events that will be hosted in his home, and he will have memberships to Hickory Hills Country Club and The Tower Club. During the ceremony, Smart said he and his wife, Gail, would donate the housing allowance to the Missouri State Foundation each year to set an example

of giving back. He will give $30,000 a year for 10 years to create the Gail and Clif Smart Professorship in Agriculture. The other $10,000 will go to various campus programs, the first of which is Tent Theatre.

“We wanted to support our William H. Darr School of Agriculture because of the great research it is doing at the research campus in Mountain Grove; because I support improving faculty salaries and this is one of our strongest departments, but has no endowed faculty positions; because the School of Agriculture has grown in enrollment and, therefore, needs additional resources; and because I wanted to honor my grandfather, who is one of the people I pattern my life on – the original Clifton Smart – and who farmed cotton in Mississippi County, Ark., for 60-plus years.”

What’s next for President SmartIn a radio interview aired Oct. 19 on KSMU, Smart – who has served on a number of civic and nonprofit boards – said he is glad he already knows campus and community leaders because it allows him to get to work quickly on his goals.

Among those goals: Telling the Missouri State story.

“I don’t think people around (some) parts of the state know how good some of our programs are, some of our faculty are, what kind of undergraduate research we’re doing, what kind of cutting-edge research we’re doing, that students get to take classes from real professors,” he said during the KSMU interview.

He wants to take his message around the state and beyond to potential students, education groups, chambers of commerce, community colleges and more – and especially to areas that may be unfamiliar with Missouri State.

He is also going to ask campus leaders to take a fresh look at academics and administration to see where

improvements or changes are needed to best serve and recruit students.

He hopes to remain at Missouri State for a long time.

“Gail and I are excited to take on the leadership of the University permanently,” Smart said at the Oct. 16 ceremony. “I’ve challenged our folks to think bigger and bolder so this University becomes what we all want it to be as we truly grow into our name. I want to thank the search committee and the board for their confidence in me, and I look forward to working with the board and our faculty, staff, students and alumni for many years to come.” n

Highlights of interim presidency

Missouri State accomplished much in the 16 months when Smart was serving as interim president, including:

Collaborating on initiatives with other institutions, in Springfield and around the state, including finalizing the new cooperative Doctor of Pharmacy degree program with the University of Missouri-Kansas City

Setting an enrollment record on the Springfield campus in fall 2012

Breaking the record for private gifts in a year, with more than $20 million contributed

Providing a salary increase to employees for the first time in three years

Hiring the first permanent vice president for diversity, and organizing the division of diversity and inclusion

Changing policies to eliminate car allowances for administrators and altering provisions for administrators returning to faculty

Establishing a policy for shared leave

Magazine staff shadowed Smart for a few days and have put together a photo gallery that gives a glimpse into the typical, busy schedule of an MSU president. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

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Page 10: Missouri State University alumni magazine

10 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Meet the five winners of the

Missouri State University

Alumni Association awards

for 2012!

By Stephanie Matthews

Photos by Jesse Scheve

Test your knowledge of Homecoming trivia through the years with our five-question quiz! W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U Online Exclusive

Slide show

calendar or event

movie

Chat with a Student

Request Info

Explore Majors

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Page 11: Missouri State University alumni magazine

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 11

TITLE: Dean emeritus, College of Business

LIVES IN: Tulsa, Okla.

NATIVE OF: Boyden, Iowa

FAMILY: Wife, Carol; son, Jeff; daughter, Cheryl

YEARS OF SERVICE TO MISSOURI STATE: 1990 to 2009

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in accounting and business management, 1964, Buena Vista University; master’s degree in business administration, 1965, University of South Dakota; doctoral degree in accountancy, 1974, University of Missouri, Columbia

AWARDS AND HONORS: President of Midwest Business Deans’ Association; chaired numerous peer review accreditation teams for Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International; Messenger of International Peace award, Center of Research and Cooperation, La Paz, Bolivia; Academy of Business Administration International Leadership Service Award; David D. Glass Distinguished Leadership Chair

AWARD OF APPRECIATION

Dr. Ronald Bottin

Ron Bottin accepted the position of dean of the College of Business at Missouri State in 1990. His leadership led to an environment quick to respond to student needs, evidenced by the creation of several new undergraduate majors and graduate programs. College of Business total enrollment increased substantially during his time as dean. Bottin guided both the College of Business and the School of Accountancy in attaining accreditation from the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International in 1992. Bottin’s active role in fundraising activities resulted in a 30-fold increase in endowments for the college. It was also during his tenure that the college was invited to join IBM’s Initiative Program, which resulted in access to equipment and resources valued at $5 million. Bottin was a strong supporter of Missouri State’s public affairs mission and an advocate for student diversity.

How does it feel to receive this award? I am truly honored and humbled. It is heartwarming and rewarding to know that others think your efforts may have touched the lives of others and had an impact on the University.

What do you consider your most important professional accomplishments?

One of my most important accomplishments was assembling the team that contributed to attainment of accreditation from AACSB International. AACSB indicates that there are 10,265 business programs worldwide, and only 1.6 percent hold both business and accounting accreditation. I am confident this effort contributed to making the College of Business the largest business program within a six-state area and allowed us to recruit highly qualified faculty. For students, this attainment means they will be able to compete with students from any school in the country. I am also proud of fundraising activities that resulted in five $1,000,000 gifts for faculty endowed chairs and five $250,000 endowed professorships, as well as several million in endowments for student scholarships. It is the mark of a successful program if alumni, friends and corporate supporters are willing to commit resources to invest in your efforts.

What is a message you would like to give to the Missouri State University community? It is important to remember that for Missouri State to continue on the path of greatness, every individual must be a contributing member of the team. Higher education is a noble calling. We must always remember the primary reason we are here is students.

One of the most rewarding experiences of higher education is the opportunity to continually be interacting with bright young people. This relationship truly keeps a person energized. I have found a great amount of satisfaction in seeing these young people grow and mature.

“I came to learn that Dr. Bottin meant what he said, and his door was truly

always open. Despite all of the accomplishments of the college during

his tenure, I would argue that his greatest quality was his commitment to

providing a world-class educational experience to students.”

— Ryan Sivill, ’07 and ’08, former student

Page 12: Missouri State University alumni magazine

ALUMNI AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Greg Burris, ’83 and ’88

During his nearly 30-year career, Greg Burris has built a record of contributions as a University and community leader. Burris began his career as a junior computer programmer at Missouri State in 1983. He worked his way up, and in 2002 he became vice president for administrative and information services and chief information officer. He remained in that role for six years. A few of his contributions include overseeing some efforts related to the University’s name change, guiding the team responsible for the design and construction of JQH Arena, creating the University Staff Ambassadors program and coordinating a project that resulted in a $1.8 million federal Title III grant. Burris became Springfield’s city manager in 2008 and is now responsible for approximately 2,300 employees, a $350 million annual budget and $1.2 billion in assets. Burris’ tireless commitment to making Springfield a better place is further demonstrated through his work with many local organizations. In 2008, he was given the O. Franklin Kenworthy Award for Outstanding Leadership from Leadership Springfield.

What do you consider your most important professional accomplishment? Creating the University Staff Ambassadors program (at Missouri

State), because it has affected lives. I’m proud of my contributions to constructing buildings, improving work processes and designing and writing computer systems, but nothing compares to changing someone’s life for the better. The program is in its 10th year, and I am so proud of everyone who has helped make it a success. The program has been replicated at a number of universities, and I’ve just started a similar program for city staff.

What motivates you to serve the Springfield community?A few decades ago, I admired this community from afar. But once I went through the Leadership Springfield program, I felt an obligation to get engaged with this incredible community of people. Springfield is known for collaboration — we communicate and work together well. I credit the community leaders who have come before me for setting that tone.

You moved into the city manager position during a difficult economic time. Talk about some of the challenges you faced.I was sworn into my position the day the recession started. My team at the city has done a great job of weathering the storm. We managed a 3/4-cent police-fire pension tax during the recession — something of which other cities are envious. I believe

our community is positioned well, with strong higher education and medical institutions. Watch what happens in our community in the next 10-15 years — it should be amazing.

What is a message you would like to give to the Missouri State University community?Dream big, keep doing what you’re doing and keep the heat on ... this is a marathon, not a sprint.

“Greg is one of the most important leaders in our community. Not by virtue of

office, but by the respect and admiration he has earned through his work in

making Springfield a better place to live, work and play.”

— Brian Fogle, president, Community Foundation of the Ozarks

JOB TITLE: City manager for City of Springfield

LIVES IN: Springfield

NATIVE OF: Nixa, Mo.

FAMILY: Wife, Betsy; daughter, Tori

YEARS OF SERVICE TO MISSOURI STATE: 1983 to 2008

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in computer information processing, 1983; master’s degree in business administration, 1988, both Missouri State University

NOTABLE SERVICE ACTIVITIES: Chairman, board for the United Way of the Ozarks; chairman, board for Partnership Industrial Center; board member, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Community Partnership of the Ozarks, Public Utilities and Springfield Business Development; Junior League Advisory Council

12 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Page 13: Missouri State University alumni magazine

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 13

OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD

Shawn O’Neail, ’97 and ’99

After receiving his master’s degree, Shawn O’Neail was selected for the most prestigious management internship program offered by the executive branch of the federal government: the Presidential Management Intern Program. He entered federal public service and spent the next six years working with the Social Security Administration. O’Neail was later selected for leadership positions with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Now, still in his 30s, he is the executive director of federal government affairs for Novartis Pharmaceuticals, a global pharmaceutical firm that ranks third in the world in terms of sales. Novartis develops and markets drugs for cancer, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, diabetes and other diseases. O’Neail is responsible for representing the Novartis position to members of Congress, congressional staff/committees, executive branch officials and key consumer groups. His work has led to the passage, and defeat, of federal legislation at the highest levels.

Why did you choose Missouri State? I visited several college campuses before making my decision to attend Missouri State. For me, it was about atmosphere and a feeling of being at home. I loved the look of the campus, the academic opportunities and the welcoming personalities of the students and staff.

What are the greatest challenges and rewards of your current role? Some of the greatest rewards of my position are being able to work with members of Congress to create legislation and policy that will ensure companies like Novartis continue to discover new treatments and create jobs here in the United States. However, Washington, D.C., is a challenging place to navigate at times. It is a constant challenge to make sure our message is heard.

What motivated you to spend your career in public service? I always liked politics and government and knew at a young age I would spend time working in public service. I worked on several political campaigns, interned in a district office and helped run the campaign of a Missouri House candidate. Equally important were the experiences I had at Missouri State working in the administrative services division. Fred Marty allowed me to work on projects that required us to interface with local and state government officials. These experiences guided my decision to work in the public sector.

What do you consider your most important personal accomplishment? Without a doubt, marrying my wife and starting a family with her is, and always will be, my greatest accomplishment. Though I have enjoyed a lot of success, I

have also stumbled. She has always been there to pick me up and stayed by my side when times were not easy. My wife and my twin girls are the greatest gift from heaven anyone could wish for.

What advice would you give to a current Missouri State student? Experience as much as you can. College is a time to experiment and Missouri State is one of the greatest laboratories. Study hard, play hard. Get involved in student life activities, support athletics and attend theater productions. Enjoy Springfield, too, and make sure to learn the local history.

“Shawn stood out singularly among his peers, demonstrating mature

judgment and decision-making qualifications seldom observed.

It was my distinct privilege to have been a part of Shawn’s development

as an exceptional graduate leader.”

— Fred Marty, former vice president for administrative

and information services, Missouri State

JOB TITLE: Executive director of federal government affairs, Novartis Corporation

LIVES IN: Centreville, Va.

NATIVE OF: Hillsboro, Mo.

FAMILY: Wife, Robin; daughters, Kennedy and Keira

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in education, 1997, master’s degree in public administration, 1999, both Missouri State University

AWARDS AND HONORS: Social Security Administration Deputy Commissioner’s Citation and the Kansas City Regional Commissioner’s Citation; National MS Society’s Leadership Award

Page 14: Missouri State University alumni magazine

OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD

Barbara Ducey Bowden, ’83

Barb Bowden was behind the front desk when The Peabody Orlando, famous for the Peabody ducks, opened its doors in 1986. Today, she oversees daily operations for the hotel and is a champion for the hospitality industry in central Florida. Bowden guided the Forbes four-star hotel, now with 1,600 guest rooms, through a $450-million expansion in 2010. In addition to her role as general manager, Bowden created and manages the corporate revenue management and distribution infrastructure for Peabody Hotels. She oversees the development of organizational strategy, supporting processes and operations, internal education and training. Though she’s driven in her desire to succeed in her career, Bowden also has a commitment to her community. A leader in the hospitality industry, she is involved in supporting the central Florida area through initiatives that increase business in that sector. In addition, she is an active member of her church, working with programs such as the young adult and prison ministries.

Tell us about your career path. My love for hospitality began in high school with my first job at Six Flags. I had wonderful internship experiences during college with Silver Dollar City and Walt Disney World. However, working in a hotel was always my dream. I began

working with guest services at The Buena Vista Palace in Walt Disney World Village after graduation. Two years later, I joined the opening team of The Peabody Orlando. I have served in many other roles including telecommunications manager, reservations director, director of front office, assistant rooms division director, corporate director of revenue management and assistant general manager.

What do you do in your current role as general manager of The Peabody? I am responsible for the financial and quality results of the hotel. I work closely with our executive committee to ensure our key result areas are achieved for all of our stakeholders including our guests, associates, community and owners.

How do you think Missouri State helped you succeed? Missouri State helped me succeed in numerous ways. Our curriculum was balanced with classroom theory combined with practical work experience. Internships were required. Supplemental training was encouraged, including additional certifications and memberships in industry associations. We were encouraged to be involved in the community through volunteer work. These lessons learned at Missouri State have served me well throughout my entire career.

How do you stay connected to your alma mater? By participating in scheduled conference calls each semester with the tourism class. I enjoy speaking with the students, hearing their career goals and offering advice on employment as they begin preparation for job searches.

What does MSU mean to you? Endless possibilities — taking advantage of the many resources and opportunities offered in this wonderful environment.

“Barb is an exceptional, inspirational and results-driven leader in whatever role

she thoughtfully accepts. She mentors students, manages diverse teams, is

involved in her community and gives time to her industry.”

— Fran Brasseux, executive vice president,

Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International

JOB TITLE: General manager of The Peabody Orlando; corporate director of revenue management, Peabody Hotels

LIVES IN: Orlando, Fla.

NATIVE OF: St. Charles, Mo.

FAMILY: Husband, David; son, Matthew; daughter, Rachel

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in recreation and leisure studies, 1983, Missouri State University

NOTABLE PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES: Chair, board of directors Americas region of Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International; University of Central Florida Rosen College Lodging Alumni Council, board of directors American Hotel and Lodging Association Women-In-Lodging and Visit Orlando

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Page 15: Missouri State University alumni magazine

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 15

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Mary Jo Wynn

Mary Jo Wynn returned to her alma mater in 1957 as a teacher. She organized women’s intercollegiate athletics competition in 1958, when she started and coached the first women’s volleyball and tennis teams. In 1975, she was appointed the first director of women’s athletics as the program grew and succeeded competitively. During her tenure at then-Southwest Missouri State, athletics offerings for women increased to 11 sports. Wynn made Southwest Missouri State a leader in the Association of Intercollegiate Athletics for Women, was a key player in the establishment of the Gateway Collegiate Athletic Conference and was vital in the transition for women’s teams from the Gateway into the Missouri Valley Conference. She helped shape a women’s athletic program that made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances in the 1990s and claimed eight league championships. That is in addition to seven regular-season titles from 1992-93, when Southwest Missouri State joined the Missouri Valley Conference. Throughout her 41-year career, she emphasized academics as much as athletic competition, giving her students the support and leadership they needed to succeed.

How does it feel to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award? I am humbled and extremely honored.

What do you consider your most important professional accomplishment? Nationwide recognition of the Missouri State women’s athletic program.

What are some of your fondest memories of Missouri State? Softball and field hockey winning national titles, numerous sports participating in NCAA Division I Championships, women’s basketball going to the NCAA Division I Final Four twice, raising the blue curtain in women’s basketball, leading the nation in attendance in women’s basketball, having athletes try out for the Olympics, the coaches and staff I worked with and, finally, Fast Break Club members.

How has University athletics changed since you first came to Missouri State? We have gone from no organized program for women’s athletics to a women’s athletic program of national prominence. Also, from an athletic conference for women and a separate conference for men to both programs being in the same conference, Missouri Valley, in NCAA Division I.

What is the one thing you most wanted to impart to students? That academic success is just as important as athletic success.

How do you see your role as an alumna of Missouri State? I will always be grateful and honored to be associated with the University as a former student and staff member. Missouri State provided me with numerous opportunities that enriched my life beyond anything I could have imagined. By giving back to my alma mater, I hope that the lives of other students and staff members will be equally enriched.

“Mary Jo’s contributions to Missouri State athletics were many, particularly in

regards to women’s athletics. She stands out as a pioneer whose leadership

during the organizational effort resulted in the top-notch program that now

represents Missouri State so well.”

— Bill Rowe, director emeritus of intercollegiate athletics, Missouri State

TITLE: Emeritus senior associate director of athletics

LIVES IN: Springfield

NATIVE OF: Hartville, Mo.

YEARS OF SERVICE TO MISSOURI STATE: 1957 to 1998

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in physical education, 1953, Southwest Missouri State College; master’s degree in physical education, 1956, Northern Colorado University-Greeley; doctoral degree in scientific basis, 1971, University of Oregon-Eugene

AWARDS AND HONORS: Missouri State Outstanding Alumni Award and Athletics Hall of Fame, Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame, Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Administrator of the Year, National Association of College Women’s Athletic Administrators District 7 Administrator of the Year

Page 16: Missouri State University alumni magazine

On a clear, cool night last April, a crowd roamed around a small patch of land near Marshfield, Mo.

Most people’s heads were tilted either up or down, their eyes fixed on the sky or on the eyepiece of a telescope.

“That is awesome,” a dark blob resembling a teen boy said reverentially while walking between telescopes showing him views of Venus and a spiral galaxy 12 million light years away.

He was among the visitors to Missouri State’s Baker Observatory during NASA Public Observing Night, a twice-yearly event that attracts 400 to 600 guests.

‘You look at really good stuff!’The observatory has welcomed visitors for decades as part of the astronomy department’s outreach efforts.

“My hope is that people get excited about science,” said Dr. Mike Reed, astronomy professor. “There’s this mythos that science is complex, and hard, and impractical. And those descriptions couldn’t be further from the truth.… These astronomy nights really are exciting, because it’s the good part of the job — you just go out there and you look at really good stuff! We’re not really trying to measure anything, or do any experiments… we’re just looking and talking about what those things are.”

What you might seeEach time you attend NASA Public Observing Night, it’s a new experience: Different objects are visible, and the telescopes are pointed at different items.

Baker Observatory has a 16-inch telescope and a 14-inch telescope, both inside domed buildings.

“Then we set up a few eight-inch telescopes outside. Members of the Ozarks Amateur Astronomy Club set up some of their own telescopes as well,” Reed said.

That variety allows visitors to see celestial objects they would never see with just their eyes, such as the moon, planets, galaxies, star systems and nebulae.

“We try to look at things that are the

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The land for the observatory was donated by married Missouri State University graduates William G. and Retha Stone Baker in 1977, shortly after emeritus physics professor Dr. George Wolf began seeking a piece of land in a dark location away from campus. The Bakers knew Marshfield, Mo., was the childhood home of famed astronomer Edwin Hubble, so they thought it fitting an observatory be built nearby. The finished observatory was dedicated in April 1983.

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By Michelle S. RosePhoto by Kevin White

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Page 17: Missouri State University alumni magazine

most visually appealing,” Reed said. Last spring, telescopes showed Jupiter,

Mars and a “fuzz” — an 11-billion-year-old cluster of stars.

First-time observatory guest Steve Foucart, the University’s interim chief financial officer, was among those who glimpsed another planet using the observatory’s most powerful telescopes.

“I got to see Saturn — it was pretty small, but I could see the rings,” Foucart said.

Even just standing in line to enter one of the buildings gave people a chance to stargaze. “Look at the Big Dipper,” said music professor David Hays, who was there with his wife, Veronica Adinegara, senior graphic designer in the office of publications.

‘People can ask anything they want’Astronomy faculty, staff and students are on hand at each NASA Public Observing Night to interact with visitors.

“It’s great for question-and-answer time — people can ask anything they want about astronomy,” Reed said. “We’re happy to do it. They can pick our astronomical brains!”

Reed said the events are energizing for both the astronomy department and for attendees.

“Typically,” he said, “the reaction of someone looking through the telescope is an impression of awe — which is great, because we’re a tiny place in a huge universe.” n

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 17

Want to go? WHEN: The spring 2013 NASA Public

Observing Night will be held in April or May. The fall 2013 night will be in September or October. Weather and astronomical events both play a role in determining exact times and dates — check the astronomy department’s website (listed below) for up-to-date info. “Usually we’re there about three hours from the start time. But if a lot of people show up, we’ll stay,” Dr. Mike Reed said.

WHERE: William G. and Retha Stone Baker Observatory, approximately 10 miles northwest of Marshfield; one mile west of Missouri 38 at 1766 Old Hillcrest Road. “It’s pretty easy to get there,” Reed said. “It’s mostly highway or Interstate; only the last mile is a dirt road.” A map is available online.

WHO: Anyone — all ages are invited.

CANCELLATION POLICY: Bad viewing conditions mean the event will be postponed or canceled. “If there is rain, that’s no good, and if it’s too cloudy we also call it off. We want you to be able to see the good stuff!” Reed said. The website below will let the public know if the event has been canceled.

COST: Free!

WEB: See public-viewing dates, a map and the observatory’s phone number: www.physics.missouristate.edu/NASAObservingNight.htm

Get tips for visiting the observatory, such as what type of special flashlight you should bring, from Dr. Mike Reed. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

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Page 18: Missouri State University alumni magazine

Our Promise: The Campaign for Missouri State University has been an amazing success.

18 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

More than 167 million reasons to say

Thankyou

Page 19: Missouri State University alumni magazine

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 19

Our Promise, the most ambitious fundraising campaign in the history of Missouri State University, exceeded its goal of $125 million — thanks to the combined efforts of more than 70,000 donors.

The campaign’s last day was Dec. 31, 2012, and Missouri State announced the grand total Jan. 11, 2013: $167,000,783 in gifts and commitments.Campaign co-chairs Tom Strong and Ramona McQueary made the announcement at a celebration lunch for Our Promise volunteers and staff.

Your support means new buildings, scholarships, faculty positionsOur Promise started with a silent phase in 2005, and was publicly announced Aug. 28, 2009. By that time, the Missouri State University Foundation had raised $93,934,531 toward its original goal.

Since the campaign launch, the Missouri State University Foundation received 16 gifts greater than $1 million, 34 gifts from $500,000 to $1 million, 89 gifts from $100,000 to $500,000, 90 gifts from $50,000 to $100,000 and 866 gifts from $10,000 to $50,000.

Thousands of other alumni and friends gave smaller sums that added up to the final incredible amount.

More than 375 new scholarships were established, which will benefit more than 8,000 students.

In addition, 17 new faculty positions were established.

A total of 73,270 donors gave to the campaign.

“It is inspiring to learn that more than 73,000 donors supported Our Promise,” Strong said.

“It was more than just a few individuals; it was a network of Missouri State family, friends and alumni that allowed us to exceed our expectations. Raising more than $167 million speaks to the loyalty of those who love Missouri State.”

This support is ‘the groundwork for a better Missouri State’This level of support ensures the future of the University, McQueary said during the unveiling of the final amount: “The generosity of those who invest in Missouri State students are not just helping students of today thrive, they have laid the groundwork for a better Missouri State educational experience for generations of students to come.”

Though the campaign has concluded, the Foundation continues to raise money for the University since private support is so vital to Missouri State.

“There are many new goals and new initiatives to fund. And we will always need to increase scholarship support for students,” said Brent Dunn, vice president for university advancement. “However, our current success will lead to even greater things,” he said.

“The Our Promise campaign will help us raise even more private support in the future as we expand our outreach nationally and around the world.” n

Campaign co-chair Tom Strong speaks to the crowd at a victory celebration held during halftime of the Jan. 11 basketball game. Events were put on around campus that day to celebrate the success of the campaign.

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See a video of the campaign wrap-up on Jan. 11, featuring speakers who played roles in the success of Our Promise. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

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Page 20: Missouri State University alumni magazine

20 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Campaign culminates with two new significant gifts

Our Promise ended with notable contributions announced during events held Jan. 11:

A major gift from Dr. Norm Shealy, a Missouri physician who specializes in pain management, will benefit both the psychology and agriculture programs. Shealy’s gift, valued at more than $2 million, involves his 250-acre Fair Grove farm, which includes land, livestock, a conference center and other structures. This asset will help agriculture students with hands-on learning activities and research. The gift “could result in MSU local, wholesome meat products that have capitalized on grass and forages,” said Dr. Anson Elliot, head of the School of Agriculture.

The gift will also establish the Mary-Charlotte Bayles Shealy Chair in Conscientious Psychology, named for Shealy’s wife of 40 years.

“Conscientiousness is one of five core personality factors identified by psychologists,” said Dr. Timothy Daugherty, psychology department head. “Dr. Shealy’s gift will allow MSU’s psychology department to assume leadership in an unprecedented focus on

research and teaching related to the understanding and development of conscientiousness.”

Shealy hopes his gift will put Missouri State at the forefront throughout the world in developing this area of psychology.

“For 50 years my work has focused on safe and effective ways to relieve pain and depression,” Shealy said. “In the past two years it has become increasingly obvious that conscientiousness is the key to restoring health and longevity. The

least conscientious individuals are much less healthy, and often seek drugs and crime as ways to satisfy their problems. Although we know a lot about conscientious people, the real need for society is developing tools for motivating those who lack conscientiousness.”

A gift from Dr. Jerry Atwood, a 1964 Missouri State alumnus who is an internationally known chemist, will create the Dr. Jerry Atwood Endowed Professorship in Chemistry. Atwood started his career at the University of Alabama in 1967 and has been the head of the chemistry department at the University of Missouri-Columbia since 1994. He was appointed a Curators Professor in 1999.

Missouri State President Clif Smart expressed his appreciation to both donors.

“Their gifts, like all gifts to the campaign over the past seven years, are a testament to the impact Missouri State has had on alumni and the community over the years. We are humbled by the outpouring of support, which is so crucial today.” n

Dr. Timothy Daugherty, psychology department head (left), thanked Dr. Norm Shealy (right) for Shealy’s major gift to the University.

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M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 21

Highlights of major capital gifts throughout the campaign

Donors supported 29 capital projects during the Our Promise campaign. These projects have allowed MSU to build some absolutely amazing new structures, upgrade current buildings, and, most importantly, have helped us make sure our facilities meet the needs of our students and the community. The first major gift to be considered part of the campaign was the largest in university history — $30 million from developer John Q. Hammons to build JQH Arena.

Other significant gifts supported:

McQueary Family Health Sciences Hall: This gift helped fund an expansion that houses an anatomy laboratory,

classrooms and offices for health-related programs.

Greenwood Science Scholars Wing: The new wing includes two 1,800 square foot state-of-the-

art lab/classrooms with storage space, two study atriums, faculty offices and a large student atrium.

Darr Agricultural Center: Significant gifts helped fund expansion of the Darr

Agricultural Center, including classroom and lab facilities.

Journagan Ranch: The Journagan family donated their 3,000-plus-acre ranch in

Douglas County. The gift included cattle, equipment and other ranch facilities.

Foster Family University Recreation Center: Private support helped fund

the 100,000-square-foot facility that has three gyms, a climbing wall, an aquatics area, an indoor track, a cardio-fitness center, locker rooms and multipurpose rooms for dance and other fitness and wellness activities.

Robert W. Plaster Center for Free Enterprise and Business

Development: The downtown center will support entrepreneurs in a number

of ways and will be the home of the Small Business and Technology Development Center.

Jim D. Morris Basketball Complex: A major gift helped build basketball locker rooms

and team facilities in JQH Arena.

Betty and Bobby Allison Courts, and Betty and Bobby Allison Recreation

Fields: This gift helped support the construction of the Foster Recreation Center, and endowed a portion of the intramural sports program.

Gohn Hall on the West Plains: The renovated home, donated to

the University, will provide office and classroom space for the Missouri State University Outreach Program on the West Plains campus.

Ever considered leaving a legacy at MSU that will forever affect the lives of future Bears? Contact us and we’ll help you realize your goals.

417-836-4143 www.MissouriStateFoundation.org [email protected]

Invest in the future

Page 22: Missouri State University alumni magazine

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Bears and Lady Bears play in benefit tournaments in MexicoBoth the Bears and Lady Bears basketball teams spent part of Thanksgiving week in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, taking part in tournaments to benefit the National Urea Cycle Disorders Foundation.

The Lady Bears finished with a 2-1 record in the women’s Hardwood Tournament of Hope and in fifth place with three outstanding performances. Whitney Edie finished with a 16.7

scoring average for the event and was awarded an all-tournament team honor, while Christiana Shorter finished with a 17.3 scoring average in the tournament.

The Bears put together two solid efforts in the finals of the men’s Hoops for Hope Classic. MSU battled SEC foe South Carolina in a semifinal classic that resulted in a 74-67 overtime loss, despite a 17-point performance from Marcus Marshall and 16 points by Christian

Kirk and Anthony Downing. MSU then locked up with Southern Methodist in the third-place game. Downing scored 20 points and snagged eight rebounds, while Marshall contributed 18 with four 3-pointers in the narrow 62-61 loss.

Anthony Downing represented the Bears on the all-tournament team. n

About the National Urea Cycle Disorders Foundation

The National Urea Cycle Disorders Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to the identification and cure of urea cycle disorders. The urea cycle is a process in which waste (ammonia) is removed from the body. People with a urea cycle disorder are missing a gene that makes the enzymes needed to break down ammonia in the body. This can lead to brain damage, brain swelling, coma or even death. These tournaments are meant to raise awareness about the disorders.

www.NUCDF.org

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M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 23

Make plans to cheer on Bears, Lady Bears basketball teams at postseason tournaments

Both Missouri State basketball teams will compete in MVC tournaments in March in the St. Louis area. Here’s what you need to know about experiencing the games!

Men’s tournament in St. Louis

For the 16th straight year, fans of Missouri State men’s basketball will have an official hospitality location during Arch Madness in St. Louis.

Fans can gather at The Hangout at Union Station, 1820 Market St., during the MVC Men’s Basketball Tournament, held March 7-10. The Hangout is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on MSU game days. During MSU game times, The Hangout closes its doors for fans to experience the Bears playing live at Scottrade Center, 1401 Clark Ave.

Join fellow Bears fans for pregame pep rallies before every MSU game with appearances from the BearMania pep band, Sugar Bears, cheerleaders and mascots. Fans will also be offered free snacks and soft drinks.

The Hangout is in the southeast end of the lower level of Union Station, just inside the South Plaza entrance.

Visit www.ArchMadness.com for hotel information, ticket discounts and other tournament information.

Women’s tournament in St. Charles

For the MVC Women’s Basketball Tournament in St. Charles, join fellow Lady Bears fans for pregame pep rallies at the official team hotel: the Sheraton Westport Plaza, 900 Westport Plaza, St. Louis.

Games will take place in The Family Arena, and the hotel has easy access to the arena.

The Lady Bears pep rallies on March 15, 16 and 17 will feature free refreshments, giveaways, spirit posters and send-offs for the team as they load the bus to the games.

Visit www.mvcstcharles.com for hotel information, ticket discounts and other tournament information.

Baseball, softball teams announce home schedules

Catch the men’s Baseball Bears and women’s Softball Bears in action this spring.

Baseball home scheduleALL GAMES AT HAMMONS FIELD, 955 E. TRAFFICWAY ST.

March 1-3: Northwestern State University

March 8-10: Northwestern UniversityMarch 15-17: Western Illinois

UniversityMarch 26: University of KansasMarch 27: Southeast Missouri State

UniversityMarch 29-31: Indiana State University*April 9: University of MissouriApril 16: Oklahoma State UniversityApril 19-21: Bradley University*May 3-5: Wichita State University*May 7-8: Oral Roberts UniversityMay 10-12: Wright State University

Softball home scheduleALL GAMES AT KILLIAN SOFTBALLSTADIUM, 2141 E. PYTHIAN ST.

Feb. 28: Wright State UniversityMarch 16-17: University of Northern

Iowa*March 20: University of Missouri-

Kansas CityMarch 29-30: Drake University*April 3: University of MissouriApril 9: University of Central ArkansasApril 20-21: University of Evansville*April 24: Wichita State University*April 27-28: Creighton University*

*Missouri Valley Conference opponent

Show your support with BearWear!

Get ready for the games with new BearWear, thanks to the Missouri State Bookstore’s online store:

www.shop.missouristatebookstore.com

Page 24: Missouri State University alumni magazine

Jordan BondTrack and Field n Senior n Normal, Ill.Jordan Bond will look to expand upon a strong 2012 campaign in which she helped the Bears to their Missouri Valley Conference indoor championship by tying for third in the finals of the high jump and claiming fifth in the finals of the triple jump. Bond, a versatile athlete who also competes in sprints, excels in the classroom and was named to the 2012 MVC Scholar-Athlete Team and 2011 MVC Honor Roll.

Ashley BrentzSoftball n Junior n St. Louis, Mo.Ashley Brentz is the Bears’ lone returning all-MVC first-teamer after an outstanding 2012 slate. The star second baseman led Missouri State in hitting (.304), hits (45), runs (24) and multi-hit games (11). Her 29 walks tied for the team lead and the fourth-highest single-season total in program history. A clutch two-out hitter (15 two-out hits), Brentz also hit .333 with runners in scoring position and stole seven bases in 2012.

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Eight inducted into University’s Athletics Hall of Fame in FebruarySix standout student-athletes, a long-time coach and one of the unsung heroes of MSU athletics comprise the group recently inducted into the Missouri State University Athletics Hall of Fame.

The 2013 Hall of Fame class: Mike McCarty – wrestling coach, 1965-72, inducted posthumously

Jim Wright – MSU athletics game day events staffer, 1980-present

Matt Caution – soccer player, 1993-97 Suzy Fortune – field hockey player, 1980-84 Cheasa Gibson – track and field athlete, 2001-04 Jason Hart – baseball player, 1995-98 Kari Koch – basketball player, 2002-06 Tracy Partain – track and field athlete, 2003-06

The class was inducted during events held the weekend of Feb. 1-2. The new inductees bring the total membership in the MSU Athletics Hall of Fame to 347.

If you’re on campus and you’d like to see the entire membership of the Hall of Fame, visit the Legacy of Competition display in the east entry lobby of JQH Arena. Online, you can find a Hall of Fame interactive page as part of www.missouristatebears.com/. n

Jersey of Lady Bears Coach Burnett retiredLegendary women’s basketball Coach Cheryl Burnett, who accumulated 319 wins in 15 years at the helm of the Lady Bears program from 1987-2002, was honored with a jersey retirement ceremony during the MSU Athletics Hall of Fame weekend.

Burnett led the Lady Bears to NCAA Final Four appearances in 1992 and 2001,

10 NCAA Tournaments and won a total of nine regular-season conference championships and six conference tournament titles.

She is now the fourth Lady Bears legend to have her jersey retired. Burnett’s jersey joins those of Jackie Stiles, Melody Howard and Jeanette Tendai, which all hang from a place of prominence in JQH Arena. n1987-2002

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See video of Coach Burnett talking about what it means to have her jersey retired. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Page 25: Missouri State University alumni magazine

Keenen MaddoxBaseball n Senior n Ballwin, Mo.Keenen Maddox returns to the Baseball Bears’ lineup in 2013 after enjoying a breakout junior season in which he helped MSU advance to its first NCAA Regional appearance in nine years. The outfielder was named MSU’s A.E. “Ted” Willis MVP and honorable mention All-MVC after leading the club in home runs (8) while batting .324. Maddox also was named to the NCAA Coral Gables All-Regional team after batting .500 with a homerun and seven RBIs in the span of three games.

Emma CleggWomen’s Golf n Senior n Lancashire, England Emma Clegg has been just what the Bears needed in her senior year, locking down the No. 1 spot in the lineup with a stellar fall season, including a runner-up finish by a stroke at the MSU/Payne Stewart Memorial. She is ranked third in the Missouri Valley Conference heading into the spring campaign after posting a 76.33 scoring average in the fall. In the classroom, she sports a 3.84 GPA while majoring in geography. She was named an All-American Scholar by the National Golf Coaches Association last season.

missouristatebears.com

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 25

Coach Wynn, women’s athletics pioneer, honored during Hall of Fame weekendBy Mark Stillwell

Dr. Mary Jo Wynn was recognized during the weekend’s basketball games for her many contributions to women’s athletics. She talked with Missouri State magazine about the 40th anniversary of Title IX, the federal law preventing discrimination against gender in sports programs.

Missouri State University has enjoyed a reputation for a strong and successful women’s athletics program on a conference, regional and national level for more than four decades.

MSU athletes have made individual or team NCAA appearances in eight sports with 70 conference and conference tourney championships in their 30 years in Division I, after strong Division II showings before that.

It’s no coincidence this success has come in the same timeframe as the adoption of Title IX of the United States Code. This law says, among other things, that agencies receiving federal funds cannot discriminate in their programs in many categories, including gender.

As Title IX reaches the 40-year mark, its effect on scholastic and collegiate athletics has been profound. Girls’ and women’s athletics have exploded onto the national sports scene, as well as at MSU.

One of the architects of MSU’s success in women’s athletics is Dr. Mary Jo Wynn, who is also known as a women’s sports pioneer in national circles. Wynn was Missouri State’s first director of women’s athletics, a post she took in 1975 after years of coaching MSU teams.

Before she retired from athletics administration in 1998, Wynn had established an MSU women’s sports hall of fame. She had also overseen

two NCAA Final Four appearances and national attendance leadership in basketball, plus team NCAA appearances in softball, volleyball, golf and soccer.

“We didn’t achieve all our goals right away, and may never achieve them all, but we always pushed in the direction of those goals,” Wynn said. “The thing we worked for was to provide as many opportunities for young women as we could. That was always the driving force of our efforts.”

Those opportunities came through enhancements of facilities, staffing, scholarships and operational budgets for women’s sports. Those tools enabled MSU and other schools to attract better student-athletes.

“It was four or five years before high school teams got better, but then we began to see more ladies starting as freshmen at the college level and that’s when you knew the development was starting to pay off,” Wynn said.

When Missouri State moved to Division I in 1982, Bears teams were pitted against the top programs in the land. Many times, MSU competed against major schools with far more resources. However, Title IX helped level the playing field.

Now, Wynn said, women’s athletics is simply part of the overall athletics picture. She pointed out that the 2012

Olympic Summer Games in London attracted more female athletes than ever before. “There was not one nation without at least one female participant, and that was a first.”

Wynn said success for women in athletics might even have led to success in other areas.

“We’re also seeing more women getting into the fields of politics, medicine and law, and having success in those areas, and I believe that’s also an outgrowth of this.” n

Mark Stillwell is a former sports information director for Missouri State. Now retired, Stillwell continues to write about Bears athletics in various publications.

HALL OF FAME

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[Louisville, Ky.] Attendees enjoyed an evening of networking Sept. 7 at the Muhammad Ali Center, and many attended the Bears football game against the Louisville Cardinals the following day. Pictured at left are Kent Simpson, ’66, Judy Simpson, Janet Steffens, ’69, Scott Jones, ’65 and Cheryl Jones, ’67.

MarooNation is Missouri State Alumni Association’s version of the ultimate road trip. By hosting events around the state and across the nation, the Alumni Association takes the spirit of maroon and white on the road to ensure alumni and friends stay informed, connected and involved with Missouri State University. Events are planned throughout the year.

26 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

[Dallas] Dallas-area alumni and friends gathered Oct. 19 at the Embassy Suites Outdoor World in Grapevine, Texas. From left: Deborah Bryant, ’81, Diane Gasparro, ’77, Jackie Boessen, ’12, and Brandon Yansky.

[Rogers, Ark.] Alumni in northwest Arkansas gathered Sept. 21 at the Pinnacle Country Club in Rogers. (Photo at right) Front row from left: Karen Rapier, ’93; Charles Christopherson, Sandy Christopherson and Glen Christopherson, ’11. Back row, from left: Ryan Stackhouse, ’08, Emily Stackhouse, ’07 and Tom Pyatt, ’60. (Photo at far right) From left: Megan Cuddy, ’99, Jason Cuddy, ’00, Scott Zelmanski and Karen Zelmanski, ’95.

Page 27: Missouri State University alumni magazine

[Atlanta] The Atlanta area had maroon-and-white spirit Oct. 6 as Missouri State alumni and friends gathered at Maggiano’s Little Italy. (Photo above left) Seated, from left: Melissa Craig, ’99, Marilyn Bailey, Karen Finley, ’61 and Fred Leibach, ’59. Back row: Donald Stephens, ’61, and Gary Bailey, ’61. (Photo above) From left: Kevin Dorman, ’01, Joel Hanson, ’95 and Lisa Hanson, ’91.

[Seattle, Wash.] (Photo at left) Missouri State alumni and friends in the Seattle area met at the Steelhead Diner for a gathering with faculty. Guests made Missouri State connections, had great food and won door prizes. (Photo at far left) David Chapman, ’05, and Ryan Chapman with College of Natural and Applied Sciences Dean Tamera Jahnke.

[Washington, D.C.] Alumni and friends met Dec. 2 at Clyde’s of Gallery Place in Washington, D.C., for a holiday gathering. Guests celebrated the season and heard the latest University news. Pictured at left are: seated, Joyce Adams , ’67, Fred Adams, ’66, and John Miller, ’00. Back row: Mike Coleman, ’93, Luanna Springman, ’93, Jane Bukovac, Doug Harpine, ’70, and Mika Miller, ’02.

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 27

…coming to a town near you!

BEARS NEAR AND FAR: Catch maroon-and-white spirit at venues around the country this spring! Meet fellow alumni, make professional connections, remember good times and hear the latest University news.

Feb. 28 Joplin, Mo., area

March 1 Seoul, South Korea

March 6 St. Louis, Mo.

March 7-10 St. Louis, Mo. MVC Postseason Men’s Basketball Tournament

March 10 New York, N.Y.

March 14-17 St. Charles, Mo. MVC Postseason Women’s Basketball Tournament

March 21 Kansas City, Mo. Marshfield, Mo.

April 4 Jefferson City, Mo.

April 6 Chicago, Ill.

April 13 San Diego, Calif.

April 14 Newport Beach, Calif.

April 17 Los Angeles, Calif.

April 18 St. Louis, Mo. Kansas City, Mo.

April 25 Rolla, Mo.

 May 2 West Plains, Mo.

May 19 St. Louis, Mo. Missouri State Family Day at the Zoo

May 24 Beijing, China

May 26 Shen Zhen, China

June 1 St. Louis, Mo. Missouri State Night at Busch Stadium

June 21 Kansas City, Mo. Missouri State Night at Kauffman Stadium

June 24 Lebanon, Mo.

Event details will be announced via email. Update your email address at www.alumni.missouristate.edu and ask your Missouri State friends to do the same.

Visit www.alumni.missouristate.edu for details.

Page 28: Missouri State University alumni magazine

[Monett, Mo.] Alumni and friends from Barry and Lawrence counties met Dec. 6 for a gathering at Grant’s Family Restaurant in Monett. President Clif Smart gave a University update and Art Hains, voice of the Bears, led a conversation with Football Coach Terry Allen and Baseball Coach Keith Guttin. (Photo above) From left: Anne Jones, ’62, James Jones, ’63 and Glen Cope, ’02.

[Tulsa, Okla.] Alumni and friends gathered Nov. 15 for a reception at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa. Guests enjoyed complimentary hors d’oeuvres, great door prizes and the opportunity to meet Missouri State University President Clif Smart. (Photo at left) From left: Sarah Weigle, ’05, Jason Emmert and Abbey Sanderson, ’08. (Photo below at left) From left: Vice President for University Advancement Brent Dunn, Virgil Jones, ’68, and Gerry Jackson, ’87.

28 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

[Nashville, Tenn.] Nashville-area alumni came together Nov. 10 at Maggiano’s Little Italy. (Photo at right) From left: Missouri State President Clif Smart, Neal Smith, ’80, Joan Murphy Smith, ’79 and Vice President for University Advancement Brent Dunn. (Photo at far right) Greg Brown and Brandi Miller, both ’07.

[Houston, Texas] Alumni and friends gathered Nov. 9 at The Houstonian Hotel. (Photo at far left) From left: Cindy Barrett, ’82, Katie Griffith, ’99 and Rachel Owens, ’02.

See more photos and find the next MarooNation event near you. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Page 29: Missouri State University alumni magazine

CONTINUE the TRADITIONCONTINUE the TRADITION

DonHow did it make you feel to have another Bear in the family?Terrific! My wife, Lynette, and I have always been great fans of the University and have fond memories of our time there as students. Springfield is a warm, welcoming city in which to live. I take great pride in having earned a degree at Missouri State, and it has served me well. I am very proud of Missouri State traditions and athletics.

How did your time at Missouri State contribute to your life?It started me on an educational journey that has continued to this day. I went on to earn advanced degrees and continue working in education even now. My start at Missouri State made it all possible!

GarrettWhen did you know you wanted to study at Missouri State?I applied to a few other schools, but after visiting the campus and getting a feel for Springfield, it was the obvious choice.

Did your relatives who are alumni talk about the school?My grandparents have immense pride in Missouri State, and as I inched closer to my college days, they reminded me it was a great option. I’ve also heard many stories from my grandfather’s siblings about their days at Missouri State and how their degrees benefited them.

Why would you recommend Missouri State to other out-of-state students?I think the feeling of community is unique — and not just when you’re a student. You feel it when you visit. Students here come from all walks of life, but everyone works together for the general betterment of each other. Plus, coming from California, I wasn’t exposed to a lot of weather change, so it is great to experience the seasons. Fall in Springfield is unbelievable!

STUDENT: Garrett Sierra

MAJOR: English literature

HOMETOWN: Irvine, Calif.

MSU ALUMNI AND STUDENTS IN THEIR FAMILY: 6

GRANDPARENTS: Don and Lynette (Hamilton) Low

DON’S DEGREE: Bachelor’s in elementary special education/learning disabilities, 1957

JOB TITLE: Interim vice president of student services at Bakersfield Community College

LIVES IN: Palm Desert, Calif.

CONTINUE the TRADITION is an out-of-state fee waiver program for the children and grandchildren of Missouri State graduates. To qualify, students must be classified as non-residents for fee purposes, must be

enrolled full-time and must have at least one parent or grandparent who is a graduate of Missouri State. Learn more at www.alumni.missouristate.edu/ContinueTheTradition.htm/.

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 29

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30 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

NOVEMBER

EBT Restaurant was the place to be for area alumni on Nov. 15. From left: Morgan Jones ’03, Corrie Jones ’05 and Matt VanBecelaere, ’11.

Kansas City

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER NOVEMBERSEPTEMBER

Missouri State University friends and alumni gathered Sept. 20 at Fox & Hound in Overland Park, Kan. From left: Allison DeWitt, ’83, Shelly Harden, ’89 and Robin Smith, ’78.

OCTOBER

Alumni and friends gathered Oct. 18 at the Hereford House in Leawood, Kan. Guests heard a presentation about the Bill R. Foster and Family Recreation Center, the newest facility on campus. From left: Sue Kreissler, ’74, Kenny Kreissler, ’73 and Jimmie Dull, ’77.

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M I S S O U R I S TAT E S U M M E R 2012 31

SEPTEMBER

Several new faces joined many loyal Bears at September’s MarooNation event for the St. Louis area. They gathered Sept. 20 at Mike Duffy’s in Kirkwood for delicious food, door prizes and networking. Seated, from left: Lisa Meyer, ’84, Joanne Grasser, ’86, Bill Selbert, ’83 and Mark Daniels, ’82. Back row, from left: Doug Meyer, ’83, Rhonda Miller, ’84, Barb Selbert, ’83, Megan Flynn, ’12, and Claudia Rechtien, ’12.

OCTOBER

A Taste of Missouri State was held Oct. 14 at Mathew’s Kitchen in St. Louis, a restaurant owned by Mathew Unger, ’99. Dr. Anson Elliott, director of the Darr School of Agriculture, presented an overview of Missouri State’s agriculture program. Guests sampled Missouri State wines and learned about MSU wine production. From left: Wayne Myrick, ’88, Cathy Myrick, ’91, Mark Thompson, ’86 and Cheryl Thompson, 86.

NOVEMBER

It was a maroon-and-white night Nov. 15 as alumni and friends gathered at Syberg’s in Maryland Heights. Rhonda Miller ’84, Mark Sullivan, ’86 and Craig Schubert, ’84, were among the attendees to learn about the Missouri State public affairs mission.

DECEMBER

A holiday gathering was held Dec. 20 at Favazza’s Restaurant in The Hill neighborhood. Seated from left: Tammy Caldwell, ’81, Jim Massello, ’77, and Barbara Massello, ’66. Back row, from left: Kelly Caldwell, MSU student, Bonnie Paulsmeyer, ’68, Christopher Hotard, Sue Chilton, Don Chilton, ’68.

St. Louis

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

Page 32: Missouri State University alumni magazine

32 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Seven judges serve on the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District. Of those seven, three are MSU graduates. Don Burrell, ’83, Jeffrey Bates, ’79, and Bill Francis, ’74, all have fond memories of their time on campus: Francis remembers when Missouri State was Southwest Missouri State College; Bates lived in Freudenberger House when it had a pool; and Burrell’s father and grandfather also attended Missouri State, making Burrell’s son the fourth generation in his family to pass through Missouri State.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in law?

BURRELL: My father was a lawyer and prosecuting attorney and he loved his job. I thought it was interesting, but when I first graduated from Missouri State, I went into radio work. Before I went into radio, I had the experience of dreading waking up to go to a job I didn’t enjoy. I knew that my dad loved his job, so I eventually decided to go to law school and I love this job. It has been terrific to me.

BATES: I worked at Buffalo High School’s radio station and then interned at KSMU when I came to Missouri State. I wanted to graduate with a degree in communications and work television and radio. My last semester, the professor of my broadcast

management class told us: “If you would rather do something more interesting, you ought to be the attorneys that represent broadcast managers.” That stuck with me, to the point that I eventually decided to go to law school.

FRANCIS: When I was a sophomore in high school, there was a violent murder case on the news. I felt so horrible for the widow and her young children. I thought to myself, “Who is helping these people?” Then I saw the lawyers were trying to help her by trying to convict the one responsible. And I thought, “Maybe that’s what I want to do.”

Judge William W. Francis Jr. (from left), Judge Jeffrey W. Bates and Chief Judge Don E. Burrell all earned bachelor’s degrees from Missouri State University.

Careers in the

CourtroomThree alumni serve together on the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District

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What are you passionate about, and how has that shaped your career?

BURRELL: Being a judge, you have the ability to make sure people of any stature and any background get a chance to have a fair trial and a fair hearing. It energizes me every day to think that you have these basic rights as an American citizen to have your dispute decided fairly, no matter who you are.

FRANCIS: Probably 95 percent of the people who come to a lawyer have just had something horrible happen to them. We lawyers are trained to analyze the case, but we tend to forget that these are everyday people who are facing the most serious problems they will ever face. For me, I would be most satisfied to be remembered not as the smartest or wisest judge, but that people would say, “I know I got a fair shake with Judge Francis, even if I didn’t win my case.”

How did Missouri State prepare you for where you are now?

BURRELL: I would put my education against the educations of a lot of other people I met in law school from well-known universities. I think Missouri State is a great educational institution, and my family has put our money where our mouth is. My son is the fourth generation of our family to go through Missouri State.

BATES: I really enjoyed the strong communication and English departments. I actually tested out of 24 credit hours going into Missouri State, but I specifically declined some of that English credit because I wanted to take as many communication and English classes as I could. The skills I developed at Missouri State help me every day with writing and speaking, whether to groups of people, judges, juries or writing for any of those groups.

What are some fond memories of Missouri State?

BATES: I think my fondest memory was living in Freudenberger House, because at the time it had its own pool. My best friend from Buffalo graduated at the same time I did, so we came to Missouri State and got a room assignment together. I spent my whole college career in a dorm room with my best friend, and it was just fantastic.

BURRELL: I lived off-campus and drove in for classes. Because of that, I did not have the kind of experience that produced those long-lasting friendships that those who lived together in the dorms had, which I regret. So, when my son went to Missouri State, it was important to me that he live on campus.

What makes Missouri State unique to you?

FRANCIS: What I call “the human touch.” I remember particularly the fact that any time I sought out a professor for help, I felt like I was welcome. I appreciated that human element on the professors’ side and a willingness to reach out to students with questions or needs.

Are you excited about Missouri State’s future?

BURRELL: Clif Smart, who we know very well, is charting a good course right now and I’m very excited about the things he has done.

BATES: I also wanted to commend the University for putting Clif Smart in as the president. Clif and I practiced a lot together for a number of years and I know him to be one of the most hard-working, intelligent guys out there. I have great confidence in his abilities.

FRANCIS: I’m also in agreement about Clif Smart’s leadership abilities. I think the direction of the University is good, and I’m certainly proud to call myself an alumnus of Missouri State.

About the job of a Missouri appellate judge

The Missouri Court of Appeals handles appeals from the circuit courts — if a party loses in circuit court, that party may file an appeal. In the Court of Appeals, there are no juries or witnesses; parties argue their cases before the judges. Court of Appeals judges are recommended for their jobs by a nonpartisan commission, then appointed by the governor or a commission. Once a judge has served in office for at least a year, his or her name is placed on a ballot and people vote whether to retain him or her. The Missouri Court of Appeals is divided into three districts: Eastern, Southern and Western. The Southern District has offices in Springfield and Poplar Bluff. It has seven judges and covers 44 counties, from Barton County in the west to Pemiscot County in the southwest.

— Info from Your Missouri Courts website

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1969James Robinson, BS, retired in July 2012 from the Elk Hills Presbyterian Church in Charleston, W.Va., after serving as pastor for 14 years. He continues to serve part-time as a chaplain at the Charleston Area Medical Center and on the staff of the Presbytery of West Virginia.

1971John Carnahan III, BS, Springfield, was selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2013. Carnahan is an attorney for Carnahan, Evans, Cantwell and Brown, P.C.

1972Melody Krafft, BS, Chantilly, Va., is an artist who has work featured in Jeanne Bennett’s book “Hidden Treasures: The History and Technique of Fore-edge Painting.” A fore-edge painting is painted on the edges of a book’s pages. Krafft’s work may be seen at www.melodykrafftartist.com/.

Donald “Doc” Kritzer, BS, Fulton, Mo., was elected president of the County Commissioners Association of Missouri. Kritzer has been a county commissioner for seven years and won a 2012 election to remain commissioner of the Western District of Callaway County.

1975Dave Berry, BA, Bolivar, Mo., was inducted into the Missouri Press Association Newspaper Hall of Fame. Berry is the vice president of Neighbor News of Missouri and is publisher of the Bolivar Herald-Free Press and seven other weekly newspapers.

1976Mark Shank, BS, has been elected to serve as chairman of the board for the Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity. Shank, who lives in Dallas, Texas, has served as a member of the Habitat board since 2006. Shank is a partner with the law firm of Gruber, Hurst, Johansen, Hail and Shank, LLP.

1977Thomas Peebles Jr., BA, Springfield, was selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2013. Peebles is an attorney for Carnahan, Evans, Cantwell and Brown, P.C.

1980Rebecca Groves Brannock, BSEd & MSEd, ’80 & ‘83, was awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award in the College of Education at Pittsburg State University, where she is a professor in the department of psychology and counseling and serves as the director of the school counseling program. She and her husband, Jim Brannock, BS, ’73, reside in Webb City, Mo.

Maj. Gen. Karen Dyson, BS, Falls Church, Va., became the first female finance officer to achieve the rank of major general. Dyson’s promotion ceremony was hosted by Under Secretary of the Army Joseph W. Westphal at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, Va. Dyson has been selected to be the director for Army Budget, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Financial Management and Comptroller), Washington, D.C.

Joseph Dow Sheppard III, BS, Springfield, was selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2013. He is an attorney at Carnahan, Evans, Cantwell and Brown, P.C.

1981Robert Sanders, BSEd, Brandon, Fla., released his first picture book, “Cowboy Christmas,” in September. He has two other children’s books slated for release from HarperCollins. He also works as a creative writing resource teacher at Mintz Elementary School in Brandon, Fla.

1983David Rush, BSEd, Springfield, was appointed to be a United States magistrate judge. He served as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Western District of Missouri and has worked as a federal prosecutor in Springfield since 1990.

1984Marla Calico, BS, Fair Grove, Mo., was inducted into the International Association of Fairs and Expositions Hall of Fame. Calico is the former general manager of the Ozark Empire Fair and served as the chair of the board of directors of the IAFE in 2003. She serves as the director of education and manages the IAFE’s Institute of Fair Management.

Traci Sooter, BS, Rolla, received the Colby Award from Sigma Kappa sorority in recognition of her work in the fields of architecture, construction management and education. The award honors alumnae

whose career achievements are nationally renowned. Sooter is an associate professor in the Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University and completed the design/build of the first Platinum LEED home for Habitat for Humanity.

1989Kip Thompson, BSEd & MS, ’89 & ’93, Springfield, is serving in Kuwait as the commander of the 983rd medical detachment, preventative medicine.

1990Steven Yates, BA, Flowood, Miss., is the winner of the 2012 Juniper Prize in Fiction. His story collection, “Some Kinds of Love,” will be published in April 2013 by University of Massachusetts Press. Yates is the assistant director/marketing director at University Press of Mississippi.

1991Joseph Passanise, BS & MA, ’91 & ’93, Springfield, was again recognized as a Missouri Super Lawyer in the area of criminal defense and is featured in Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers 2012 magazine.

1992Patrick Banger, BS, Gilbert, Ariz., is the city manager of Gilbert, which is part of the Phoenix region and the 97th largest city in the nation with 220,000 residents. Banger is the top appointed official responsible for the leadership and operations of the city.

Don Worthley, BS, Springfield, is the chief software architect

ClassNotes

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of Old Town IT, an information-technology company that is celebrating its inclusion in the 2012 Inc. 500, a list of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States as ranked by Inc. magazine.

1994Kimberly Novak, BS, Montgomery, Texas, received the Sue Kraft Fusell Distinguished Service Award from the Association for Fraternity and Sorority Advisors. The award recognizes individuals who have exhibited outstanding achievements in their service to fraternity/sorority life. Novak, founder of NovakTalks, consults with campuses and communities to address risk management, organizational development, campus safety and administrative team training.

1995Brian Carosone, BS, Barnhart, Mo., is director of engineering at Waynecrest Electric in St. Louis. He was previously employed at Barry-Wehmiller Design Group as director of projects.

Regina Clift Kays, BSE, was appointed library director of the Palm Springs (California) Libraries. She worked for library services and systems for 10 years in various roles before accepting the director position. She and her husband, Mike Kays, BS, ’92, live in Cathedral City, Calif.

1996Troy Metcalf, BFA, Sherman Oaks, Calif., returned to his recurring role of Jim on ABC’s “The Middle” this season. This is Metcalf’s second recurring role on a TV series. He also starred in the world premiere of the play “No Good Deed” by Matt Pelfrey,

which opened in January 2012 at The Ford Theater in Los Angeles.

1997Gen. Frank Grass, MS, Washington, D.C., is the newly appointed chief of the National Guard Bureau. He is responsible for ensuring that more than 470,000 Army and Air National Guard personnel are ready to protect America. He is a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and is a four-star general.

1998Neal McNamara, BS, Chicago, Ill., was elected into partnership by KPMG LLP, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm. McNamara is an advisory partner with the firm’s transactions and restructuring practice, where he specializes in providing advisory services to clients in the areas of acquisitions, divestitures, spin-offs and IPOs.

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 35

2004

Every morning Julien Duxin wakes up curious, trying to find the answer to a scientific question — an answer that could help prevent diseases such as cancer.

The 2004 Missouri State graduate is currently a post-doctoral fellow in The Walter Lab at Harvard Medical School, which is named for his supervisor, Dr. Johannes Walter.

The question he is trying to answer is related to the mechanism of replication-coupled repair of specific DNA lesions.

Didn’t catch that, exactly? Here’s his

explanation: “Before cells divide they need to successfully replicate their DNA so the genetic information can be transmitted from one cell to the other. Errors that occur during this process can be detrimental and can induce a variety of diseases, including cancer.”

Duxin said his work is so interesting it sometimes feels like he’s “playing.”

“It’s like keeping the inner child entertained every day. Although very exciting at times, it can be extremely frustrating because frequently the answer I come up with is negative or inconclusive,” Duxin said. “However, the simple thought of finding the answer one day is enough to keep me going every morning with the same excitement.”

Duxin, who lives in Boston with his wife, Maria Fernanda Fierro, started his chemistry career at Missouri State. He says the department gave him a positive experience, and constant support from the faculty pushed him forward.

However, academics weren’t the only thing that brought him to MSU. He came

from Montevideo, Uruguay, on a scholarship to play golf for the Bears: “The USA is one of the few countries in the world where you can compete in a sport while getting a college education.”

After completing his bachelor’s degree, he was accepted into two respected biochemistry programs: Washington University and Harvard Medical School.

Duxin has a love of travel, and — after completing his doctorate degree and getting married — he took six months off to travel in Asia and South America before starting his post-doc program.

“After completing my post-doctorate at Harvard, I wish to stay in academia and run my own laboratory where I will apply the knowledge I’ve acquired over the years. I intend to stay in the field of genomic stability to understand the basic mechanisms by which cells faithfully transmit our genetic information.”

So diseases, take note: Julien Duxin wakes up thinking about how to beat you. His dedication could lead to a healthier world for all of us. n

Share your good newsGo to www.alumni.missouristate.edu and select the “Class Notes” link. You may update your alumni record and drop us a line about your most recent personal and professional accomplishments.

You also may write us at:Missouri State University Alumni AssociationAttention: Julie Ebersold901 S. National Ave.Springfield, MO 65897

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1999Nicole Antoinette Smith, MS, Suwanee, Ga., has co-authored “Getting Beyond the Day: Your Guide to Surviving a Job Layoff.” The book aims to provide people who are unemployed or underemployed with tools to manage their careers, families and life demands regardless of the country’s economic state. You can learn more at: gettingbeyondtheday.com/.

2000Joseph Kilpatrick, BS, St. Louis, has been named a partner at Husch Blackwell law firm. Kilpatrick joined the firm in 2003. His practice focuses on defending toxic tort and products liability cases.

2001Dr. Sean Robinson, MS, is practicing dermatology at Park Avenue Dermatology in Jacksonville, Fla. He has eight years of experience as a specialist and is a 2008 charter member of the Jacksonville Society of Dermatology Associates.

2002Joshua P. Stroup, BA & MA, teaches English for East Central College, a community college with five locations in

central Missouri, and was a 2012 recipient of an Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. These awards recognize teachers from the kindergarten through college level at public and private schools in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Teachers are given the awards for outstanding contributions to the educational community. Stroup resides in Sullivan, Mo.

2004Chad Boschert, BS, works at Old Town IT, an information-technology company that is celebrating its inclusion in the 2012 Inc. 500, a list of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States as ranked by Inc. magazine. The company was founded to serve the technology needs of the association industry. Boschert and his wife, Kristen (Tillery) Boschert, BSEd, ’05, live in Springfield.

2005Colin Barnett, BS, and his wife, Erica Lozano Barnett, ’04, proudly announce the birth of a son, Cohen, born October 2012. The family resides in Springfield.

2006Travis Freeman, BS, St. Peters, Mo., founded a financial education company called Four Seasons Financial Education. The company has been featured in multiple live television appearances in the St. Louis area and has expanded its programs throughout the United States.

Kristen Frevert, BS, received her doctorate degree in clinical psychology, with an emphasis in sport and performance psychology, from the University of Denver. She is a staff psychologist at Illinois State University Student Counseling Services, in addition to serving as the liaison to Redbirds Athletics.

Jill McKeever, BS, Kansas City, Mo., produced the film “Corporate FM,” which explores how corporate involvement changed FM radio. It was part of the Missouri State Film Series in October 2012.

2007Keshia Clubb Cain and Sean Cain, both BS & MA, ’07 & ’09, won $26,000 on CBS’s “Let’s Make a Deal.” The couple live in Los Angeles, Calif.

Daniel Cogswell, BS, and his wife, Patty, of Springfield, announce the birth of a son, Corban, in September 2012.

Federicka Fleschner, BMEd, a choir teacher at Herculaneum High School, was honored at this year’s Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards. These awards recognize teachers from the kindergarten through college level at public and private schools in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Fleschner resides in St. Louis, Mo.

Emily Hoffman Letterman and Emily Younker have received young journalist awards from the Missouri Press Association. Letterman, BA, Spokane, Mo., received an Award of Merit for her work as copy editor at The Standard. Younker, BS, Joplin, Mo., was one of two people honored with a Missouri Outstanding Young Journalist Award for her reporting on the tornado for the Joplin Globe.

2008Ted Alfermann, BS, Springfield, completed his master’s degree at Mississippi State University in fisheries science. He has accepted a position with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as a research biologist.

Stephen Moore, BSEd & MSEd, ’08 & ’10, Blue Springs, Mo., has begun a PhD program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He is studying educational leadership and policy, along with curriculum and instructional leadership. 2009Joslyn M. Kusiak, BS, Wichita, Kan., joined Klenda Austerman LLC as an associate attorney. Kusiak’s practice focuses on civil litigation.

2011Hannah Duncan, BFA, Columbia, Mo., has booked a guest-star spot on AMC’s “Mad Men.”

Kurt Marie, MS, was married in December 2011. He is currently a programmer analyst with Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Philadelphia, Pa.

Sarah Stickels, BS, East Alton, Ill., accepted a position with the Kemp Auto Museum in Chesterfield, Mo. She is working in the museum’s special events division, organizing galas and other high-profile affairs.

Samantha Valentine, BFA, Columbia, Ill., completed a commercial shoot in Paris and has booked a national voice-over spot for McDonald’s.

2012Mathew Wilken, BFA, Springfield, received a national honorable mention from the Associated Collegiate Press Advertising Awards for his work on The Standard’s 2011-12 advertising rate card. He works as a graphic designer for the Springfield-Greene County Library District and is also a freelance designer. Before attending MSU, Wilken served in the U.S. Air Force for 10 years.

Don’t miss outMake sure you don’t miss an alumni event in your area, the monthly newsletter or updates from your alma mater. Send your email address to [email protected] or visit alumni.missouristate.edu to update your address, and we’ll ensure you receive regular announcements that are only available online.

Page 37: Missouri State University alumni magazine

1930sMildred Vandeventer McDaniel, ’34 Springfield

1940sMary K. Hawkins Botts, ’40 SpringfieldLuther H. Dugan, ’41 Wilmington, Del.Robert M. Miller, ’42 Columbia, Mo.James R. Craig, ’43 SpringfieldEdwin L. East, ’43 Galena, Mo.Stone Manes, ’43 Cape Girardeau, Mo.Hugh Parks, ’43 SpringfieldWilliam F. Buehler, ’44 SpringfieldRoberta Miles Sims, ’44 Liberty, Mo.Hazel Flint Poindexter, ’45 North Little Rock, Ark.Ralph M. Crow, ’47 Carson City, Nev.Ruth Holmes Dickensheet, ’48 SpringfieldLewis D. Clemons, ’49 Rogers, Ark.Leland H. Gibson, ’49 Morris, Ill.Robert L. Sheppard, ’49 Springfield

1950sJoyce E. Williams Parrigon, ’50Pierce City, Mo.Horace N. Rieger, ’50Lakeside, Ariz.Marianna J. Wilson Tanner, ’50Lamar, Mo.Edwill A. Underhill, ’50Highlandville, Mo.Lois Agee Adams, ’52Humansville, Mo.Howard E. Boothe, ’52Carthage, Mo.Dr. Winifred Mudd Bowers, ’52Ozark, Mo.David L. Hilton, ’52Great Falls, Va.Betty L. Nelson Horn, ’52SpringfieldMartha J. Fullerton, ’53Bolivar, Mo.Clarence L. Logan, ’53SpringfieldRichard L. Meyer, ’53Marthasville, Mo.

Pruitt P. Miller, ’53Buffalo, Mo.Mary J. Wood Oheim, ’53SpringfieldGwen Martin James, ’54Woodbridge, Va.Lela C. Lightfoot Walker, ’54Overland Park, Kan.Wilbur T. Avery, ’55Marionville, Mo.Vonda Shortt, ’55SpringfieldJ.D. Smith, ’55Pierce City, Mo.Edmond Downey, ’56Independence, Mo.Dr. Thomas A. Grim, ’56SpringfieldRoy M. Magruder, ’56Clearwater, Fla.Alan W. Trapp, ’56SpringfieldJames D. Penn Jr., ’57Ozark, Mo.Sally Day Stewart, ’57Bolivar, Mo.Alan K. Vanzant, ’57Raymore, Mo.Norma Groom Wise, ’57Wichita, Kan.Doris Hyde Davis, ’58SpringfieldClarence A. Dixon, ’58SpringfieldJerry R. George, ’58SpringfieldJames E. Johnston, ’58Acworth, Ga.Jean E. Haun Mitchell, ’58SpringfieldClifford E. Brown, ’59Galt, Calif.

1960sElmer L. Johnson, ’60Bozeman, Mont.Thomas F. Keohane Jr., ’60Escondido, Calif.Richard A. Harman, ’61SpringfieldErnie M. Hays, ’62Maryland Heights, Mo.James A. McCord, ’62SpringfieldRobert H. Breig, ’63SpringfieldGary C. Chapman, ’63Milford, N.H.Kenton R. Inglis, ’63Temple, TexasMargaret A. Lavin Neth, ’63Saint Charles, Mo.

Winnie Mae Condon Saffle, ’63Katy, TexasMaj. Donald L. Nickels, ’64Moscow, IdahoLt. Col. Ronald L. Nickels, ’64Moscow, IdahoMichael L. Mitchell, ’67SpringfieldPatricia K. Cale, ’68Overland Park, Kan.Connie H. Farmer Winn, ’69Willard, Mo.

1970sCynthia A. Bertalott, ’71Warrensburg, Mo.Jack P. Daily, ’72Riverside, Ill.Robert L. Dobbs, ’72SpringfieldRodney L. Thomas, ’72Strafford, Mo.Mary Kathryn Goeke Bachmann, ’73St. Louis, Mo.Kathryn A. Redmon Keohane, ’73South Windsor, Conn.Anne Hill Shadwick, ’73Goodman, Mo.Rosemary Polk Morrow, ’74SpringfieldChristopher N. Nicholson, ’75Culver City, Calif.Michael D. Riddle, ’75SpringfieldNicholas C. Novak, ’76Fairdealing, Mo.Denise N. Nieman Ozanus, ’76Lindale, TexasGregory A. Wait, ’76SpringfieldRonald L. Carey, ’77SpringfieldJohn J. Hambek, ’79Fort Worth, TexasSister Helen Nelda LeDuc, ’79Bridgeton, Mo.Gary C. Lyon, ’79Littleton, Colo.

1980sMark E. Logsdon, ’80SpringfieldJane L. Beach Richardson, ’80Klein, TexasRobert D. Cornelison, ’82SpringfieldBernard J. Hevel, ’82Kimberling City, Mo.Mary P. Larimore Maune, ’83Union, Mo.James S. Appelquist, ’84Battlefield, Mo.

John P. White Jr., ’84St. Louis, Mo.Shirley A. Canfield, ’85Branson, Mo.Col. Gary F. Herchenroeder, ’85Point Lookout, Mo.Dr. Alice E. Griffin Eikner, ’86Richmond, TexasArthur R. Trampler, ’87SpringfieldRobin E. Melton, ’88Ozark, Mo.Cynthia J. Roofener Otradovec, ’88Camdenton, Mo.Mary L. Gibson Luna, ’89Springfield

1990sKevin J. Berra, ’90St. Louis, Mo.Ronald E. Holmes, ’90Bothell, Wash.Shana L. Holman Sanders, ’96SpringfieldTricia Moss Radford, ’98Nixa, Mo.Michael Resa, ’98Sarcoxie, Mo.

2000sRussell K. Campbell, ’02SpringfieldBonnie K. Collins Gary, ’02Joplin, Mo.Jennifer L. Sample Kirby, ’03SpringfieldJohnathan Buffett, ’07West Plains, Mo.Jeremiah L. Schaulis, ’07Albuquerque, N.M.

2010sJohn C. Schaible, ’12Kansas City, Mo.

Faculty/StaffDr. Fred F. Esser, faculty emeritusSpringfieldMarcella Funkhouser, retired staffSpringfieldJuanita N. Smith Pamplin, retired staffSpringfield

In Memoriam

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 37

Page 38: Missouri State University alumni magazine

38 W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Editor’s note: On Aug. 15, 2012, the Springfield campus went tobacco-free with very few exceptions. Don Payton reflects on various other campus bans through the years.

According to an item in The Standard, circa 1935 or thereabouts, Dean of Women Bertha Wells asked a then-Springfield Teachers College student: “How did all these empty bottles get in your room?” The student replied: “I wouldn’t know. I never bought an empty bottle in my life.”

Also, according to The Standard, Dean Wells once said to a campus woman: “Either your skirt is too short, or you are in it too far.”

These and other snippets continue to elicit chuckles at Homecoming, both from the 50-year class and the Golden Bears, a frisky group that meets annually just before the Bears’ Homecoming football game.

Both stories relate to campus bans, of which there have been many through the years.

Back when I was a Standard staffer, we endeavored to keep up with items “banned in Boston” – a city that had wide authority to ban works with content deemed objectionable by officials. These works included the spicy novel “Forever Amber,” the play “The Moon is Blue” and an issue of Esquire magazine. You knew if it was banned in Boston, it was just a matter of time before it got Dean Wells’ attention.

Most campus bans emanated from her office — but not all. The Board of Regents, especially during the STC years, had some rather odd bans. For example, male professors were forbidden from dancing with their wives at school functions. This rule prevailed until 1925 when a young history prof named James Shannon suddenly hopped up and, yikes, started dancing with his wife at a school mixer. Other staffers no doubt gasped, but when police failed to shut down the place, they and their wives joined the Shannons, and the ban was later expunged from the books.

Another Regent policy at the time: Female faculty and staff members could not be married. Dr. Gene Garbee, a ’30s grad who went on to become president of Upper Iowa University, once confided to me that during his student years, his wife worked on campus as a secretary. But they had to live as “singles” until he graduated and left Springfield. This rule seemingly stayed on the books until 1945, when the husband and wife team of Ivan and Georgia Calton was appointed to the faculty.

Through the years, probably nothing has been hashed and rehashed more than the use of tobacco on campus. The

Standard, in the mid-’30s, noted that a committee of six students and President Roy Ellis “has been established to settle the ‘smoking on campus’ issue once and for all.” In a subsequent edition it’s noted the committee met, discussed the matter from all viewpoints and voted. There were six yea votes, all cast by the students, to allow smoking; and one nay, cast by Dr. Ellis. Quoth The Standard: “The nays won.”

Recently, at Homecoming, a group of Golden Bears recalled Dean Wells’ campus-wide no-alcohol policy and her infamous “sniff ” test. Prior to student mixers, she stationed herself at the port of entry and sniffed the breath of each dashing young male student as he entered. Said a ’50s grad: “One night, I held my breath so long I turned purple.” Another, a former Marine who enrolled in the fall of 1948, said he survived Iwo Jima more easily than he did Dean Wells.

No doubt members of the Class of 1962 remember that wearing shorts in the campus union that fall was a no-no except during very limited hours. According to The Standard, “The wife of a Regent said ‘we don’t want the public to get the wrong perception.’ ”

That same year, the snack bar manager at the union removed a professional hypnotist by saying: “You can’t hypnotize anyone in the snack bar without permission of the dean.” Someone remarked at the time, “Too bad Dean Wells has retired. She no doubt would have said, ‘I wish I’d thought of that.’ ” n

Don Payton, ’50, is former information services director at Missouri State University. Now retired, Payton continues to write for the University and area publications. Send him messages at [email protected].

By Don Payton

Graduates of the Executive Master of Business Administration from cohorts 2011 and 2012 were invited to a reception Dec. 4 in Plaster Student Union. The EMBA is offered to a select group of students with significant business experience; many of the EMBA students are from China. This group of new Missouri State alumni heard remarks from University administration and took photos to remember their Missouri State experience. n

Page 39: Missouri State University alumni magazine

Career advice from alumnus: Seek mentors, serve others

Editor’s note: Gabriel Gore, Missouri State alumnus and partner at the St. Louis law firm of Dowd Bennett LLP, delivered the speech at the summer 2012 commencement ceremony. This is an edited and condensed snippet from his speech.

When the class of 1991 sat where you sit today, none of us had ever sent an email or text message. We had never been to a Starbucks. All of us had Blockbuster movie rental cards in our pockets. And we had tape decks in our cars.

My point in taking this stroll down memory lane is to suggest to you that in the next 20 years the world will change in many unforeseen ways.

Twenty years from now, will you have been part of building the next great American company, like Google, or Netflix, or Starbucks?

Everyone gathered here to recognize you today has complete faith that your class will change the world and do great things. So perhaps I should share with you some lessons I have learned about succeeding professionally:

Seek out quality people to learn from. I have benefited from what can only be described as an embarrassment of riches in terms of the mentorship and guidance I have received throughout my career. As you embark on your careers, the most critical factor in your success will be choosing great role models. Seek out their advice and be a willing student.

My second piece of advice is be a great teammate. As you embark on your careers you will go down many divergent paths, but I guarantee that you all will be required to work as part of a team. Be the one on the team who looks at where you can add value and does it without being asked. Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and do the difficult jobs no one else wants.

Third: Be a risk taker. Be the one who takes on the challenging assignment no one else wants to do. Be the one who volunteers to take the business trip that comes up at the last

second. Be the one who goes to the networking event where you won’t know anyone, because you never know whom you might meet. Being a risk-taker will be rewarded — perhaps not immediately, but over the course of your careers being a risk-taker will create opportunities for you that you otherwise would not have had. Be prepared to accept the unexpected opportunities, whether it be moving to a city that you never considered living in, or moving into a line of work that you never considered.

Find time to give back. Throughout the course of my career, I have always found time for community service, whether it be mentoring a disadvantaged student, serving on a public board or coaching my children’s sports teams. Often, people will come up to me and they’ll say, “Gabe, I don’t know how you find the time to do this,” and my response is always the same. I say, “The real question is, how do I find the time to do everything else?” Because the benefits and satisfaction I have gained from my community service experiences are invaluable to me. Twenty years from now, what will be your answer to that enduring question: What have I done in service of others? n

P U B L I C A F FA I R S E S S AY

Gabriel Gore was a track and cross-country varsity student athlete during his time at Missouri State, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1991. He next attended The University of Chicago Law School. From 1995-99, he served as an assistant United States attorney for the eastern district of Missouri. Since leaving government service, he has worked in private practice in Washington, D.C., and his hometown of St. Louis. He is currently a partner in the St. Louis law firm of Dowd Bennett LLP. Gore also has been active in community service, giving time to groups focused on libraries, education and at-risk children. He resides in St. Louis with his wife, Nicole, and children, Grace and Zachary.

Public affairs tenet: ETHICAL LEADERSHIP“Ethical leadership is striving for excellence and integrity as one continually develops ethical and moral reasoning while contributing to the common good.”

— Missouri State University’s public affairs website

M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2013 39

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See Gabriel Gore’s full 15-minute speech, in which he names mentors he met as a student at Missouri State and gives more tips for becoming a successful professional. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U

Page 40: Missouri State University alumni magazine

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Parents: If this issue of Missouri State is addressed to your daughter or son who has established a separate permanent address, please notify us of the new address: 417-836-5654 or [email protected]

The Bears’ Den, back thenStudents in the 1960s lined up for snacks at the Bears’ Den, a hangout in the student union of the time. There have been several different versions of the Bears’ Den through the years. The most recent opened in fall semester 2012, and is located between Blair-Shannon House and the Foster Recreation Center. The new Bears’ Den has healthy fare such as smoothies, granola bars and fruit parfaits. This new spot is keeping up the tradition of the Bears’ Den being a great place to gather — but unlike in 1960, we’re willing to bet milk costs more than 7 cents!

See a photo gallery of the Bears’ Den through the years, including the newest version opened in 2012. W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U Online Exclusive

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