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.

Alumni award for excellence in public affairs

Greg Burris

During his nearly 30-year career, Greg Burris, ’83 and ’88, 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.

Outstanding young alumni award

Shawn O’Neail

After receiving his master’s degree, Shawn O’Neail, ’97 and ’99, 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 for 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.

Outstanding alumni award

Barbara Ducey Bowden

Barbara Ducey Bowden, ’83, 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. The Peabody Orlando, which has more than 1,600 guest rooms, has received the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide four-star rating for 23 years. 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.

Lifetime achievement award

Mary Jo Wynn

Mary Jo Wynn, ’56, 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.