On March 17, 1905 the legislature passed a bill authorizing the establishment of Normal School number 4 in the Southwest District.
This year on March 17 Missouri State celebrated its 109th birthday in the Plaster Student Union Ballroom. R.E.A.L. Bears and the Alumni Association sponsored a birthday celebration to commemorate the special occasion.
Throughout the day, R.E.A.L. Bears got over one thousand Missouri State students and staff members to sign the massive four-foot tall birthday card. The card was presented at the Missouri State Birthday Party later that day and given to President Clif Smart III the next day.
The Missouri State Birthday Party was created to begin a new tradition for the University and to connect current students to Missouri State’s history. Many representatives from student organizations and staff members were in attendance at the celebration. The variety of students, organizations, and faculty/ staff members highlighted the diversity at Missouri State.
Homecoming King and Queen, Nii Kpakpo Abrahams and Allyson Liefer were the emcees of the event. Vice President Brent Dunn and Executive Director of Alumni Relations, Lori Fan presented at the event. There was also a special performance from the Missouri State Pride band.
Overall, the inaugural Missouri State Birthday Party was a stepping stone into what we hope is a growing and cherished event that everyone can look forward to each March. R.E.A.L. Bears hope to make the celebration even bigger next year.
A big thank you to all who participated in the celebration! We’re looking forward to Missouri State’s 110th celebration in 2015! If you are interested in participating please contact realbears@missouristate.edu.
