There’s a new generation of philanthropists who want to do more than write checks for a cause. They’re rolling up their sleeves to give their time and energy in addition to their resources — and alumnus Michael Chatman, founder of the Association of Maverick Philanthropists, is at the forefront of this movement. “The new breed is called a communitarian. They want to be … [Read more...] about Michael Chatman: building the mission of philanthropy
When he was young, Aaron Rugh, '94, knew he would graduate from Missouri State University — after all, two previous generations of his family had also graduated from the institution. His parents, John Rugh, ’67, and Nancy (Bennett) Rugh, ’68 and ’90, attended MSU when it was called Southwest Missouri State College, and his grandmother, Marion-Lee Smith Bennett, attended when … [Read more...] about Aaron Rugh
Elementary music teacher Veronica Baker Hatton, '98, was motivated to teach her students about patriotism following the events of Sept. 11, 2001. To commemorate Veterans Day that year, Hatton organized a concert to honor veterans in St. Charles, Mo., where she teaches at Harris Elementary School. “Each year since 2001, we have put on a Veterans Day assembly,” Hatton said. … [Read more...] about Veronica Baker Hatton
The organists for the 30 major league baseball teams hold some of the most exclusive jobs in the working world. The two who share that assignment for the St. Louis Cardinals are both former Missouri State students. The Cardinals’ musicians cover a wide range of the experience spectrum. Dwayne Hilton was on the Springfield campus from 1993-95, while Ernie Hays attended what … [Read more...] about A swing (tune) and a (radio) hit
Proud friends and family members at the July 30 commencement ceremony had been fidgeting, chatting or waving at their graduates as the events of the day unfolded. But as 78-year-old Mary Jean (Price) Walls was introduced, the crowd began to fall silent. “Today is the first time in the history of our institution that we will be awarding an honorary undergraduate degree,” … [Read more...] about First black applicant, denied admission in 1950, receives honorary degree