Working in one organization for an extended time doesn’t guarantee you will be remembered fondly. A strong work ethic and positive attitude does.

The Board of Governors voted today (May 17) to induct six former faculty and staff members in Missouri State University’s Wall of Fame. The 2018 inductees are: Greg Burris, Dr. Ben Fuqua, Susan Hom, Mary Kennedy, Chyrel Love Miller and Dr. James Pettijohn.

“All of these individuals played many roles during their time at the university,” said President Clif Smart. “They got involved in campus activities, mentored students and went the extra mile on projects that propelled MSU forward. That’s what makes them great.”

This group represents almost 180 years of combined full-time service to Missouri State.

About their service

Greg Burris (Aug. 1, 1983 – Sept. 12, 2008) saw potential, whether it was in process improvement or in developing leadership qualities in students or staff. He developed the University Staff Ambassadors program to increase staff engagement. His open-mindedness made him a great collaborator across the university.

Dr. Ben Fuqua (Aug. 20, 1973 – July 31, 2010), a prolific soil science expert, is credited as the father of the blueberry industry in Missouri. He served as the first director of the Darr Agricultural Center and provided guidance to students and industry professionals throughout the state.

Susan Hom (Aug. 21, 1972 – Aug. 31, 1976 and Aug. 20, 1979 – Dec. 31, 2002) was a master adviser and won the first ever faculty advising award. She was dedicated to her students’ academic and career successes. To support the campus community’s needs, she helped establish the University Child Care Center.

Mary Kennedy (Aug. 18, 1975 – July 31, 2012) assisted the campus and Springfield community through meticulous planning in conference services. She gave valued counsel to students and served as a resource and historian to faculty and staff.

Chyrel Love Miller (Aug. 21, 1972 – June 30, 2000), lovingly called “Mama Miller,” was a dance icon. She unearthed talent, instilled appreciation for the arts and helped to develop two new bachelor of fine arts programs. She tirelessly pushed her students toward success in the industry.  

Dr. James Pettijohn (Aug. 19, 1982 – Aug. 31, 2006) led the College of Business into uncharted territory. Before it became mainstream, he was an e-commerce pioneer. He was instrumental in the college attaining and maintaining accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. 

The induction ceremony

The honorees will have their plaques added to the wall outside of the Plaster Student Union Ballroom during a formal ceremony at 4 p.m. Oct. 19, in conjunction with Homecoming. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

Selection criteria

In addition to nominations from current or past members of the campus community, the former faculty or staff member must have:

• Significantly contributed to the success and positive collegiate experience of students.
• Worked full-time at Missouri State for at least 10 years.
• Stopped working full-time at MSU for the past 5 years.