The Political Science department had a pretty good night at the first annual Bears of Distinction Alumni Awards Ceremony on Friday, June 10th. Honored to be present with the award winners and special guests; including former honorees, Denny Pilant and Adam Crumbliss.
Starting off the night, Lee Gannaway, was honored with a Bears of Excellence Award. From the Class of 1963, Gannaway is a retired attorney. He served as Mayor of Springfield from 1995-2001 and helped lead the revitalization of downtown by securing more than $50 million in private investments during a three-year period. He is credited with the development of Jordan Valley Park, the Exhibition Center, Hammons Field and the renovation of the Landers Theater, Gillioz Theater, Discovery Center and more.