Bryan Mager’s family’s name graces buildings and spaces across Missouri State University. Now, the university is saying thank you to the man who helped enrich campus and grow the university through multiple developments.  

Missouri State will honor Magers with the Bronze Bear Award during the fall 2024 commencement ceremony Dec. 13.     

“We’re immensely honored to recognize Bryan as a model of generosity and for his lifelong commitment to our university,” said Brent Dunn, vice president, office of university advancement, and executive director, Missouri State Foundation. “Bryan has loyally supported the university’s mission and continues to be a friend to Missouri State.”  

The Board of Governors approved the award today, Oct. 18. It recognizes individuals for special support and achievement at Missouri State.   

“Bryan understands the value of higher education and its impact on southwest Missouri,” said President Dr. Richard B. Williams. “The Missouri State community it thankful for his enrichment and support throughout the years.”  

Helping shape campus 

The impact of Magers and his family can be felt throughout the Springfield campus. In 2016, Magers made a gift to help fund the outdoor courtyard plaza at the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center.   

In 2018, the university renamed the university’s health center as the Bill and Lucille Magers Family Health and Wellness Center after upgrades that doubled the size of the facility.   

In 2022, Bryan Properties gave a gift in kind through the building of Heitz House, Missouri State’s newest residence hall. The 400-room building is the first public-private partnership residence hall between Missouri State and Bryan Student Housing LLC.   

A longtime friend 

Magers grew up in Springfield and began selling real estate in 1973 after serving in the U.S. Army. In 1980, he ventured into building and by 1985, he founded Bryan Properties.  

Not only have Magers and his family helped grow campus, but he has also given of his time. Throughout his life, Magers has been a friend and supporter of Missouri State. He served as a trustee and past chair of the Foundation Board of Trustees.  

He also served in the cabinet of Onward, Upward, the university’s largest fundraising campaign to date – raising more than $274 million.   

About the Bronze Bear   

The Bronze Bear Award includes a framed resolution and a 45-pound, 18-inch Bronze Bear in an upright position mounted on a base.   

Former Missouri State art professor Dr. Jim Hill designed the award in 1998. A 14-foot statue version of the Bronze Bear mounted on a 3-foot concrete base is located just north of Missouri State’s Plaster Student Union.   

The university president and administrative council recommends Bronze Bear recipients. The executive committees of the Faculty Senate, Staff Senate and Student Government Association support the nominations. The Board of Governors has final approval.   

Previous Bronze Bear recipients include Sen. Roy Blunt, Tim Reynolds and Judith Enyeart Reynolds and John Goodman.