At a recent basketball game, the Maroon Minute recognized the work of Dr. John Bentley.

Missouri State University will grant its 20th honorary doctorate to Dr. John Bentley during the May 2016 commencement ceremonies.

Dr. Bentley will be awarded the Doctor of Public Affairs degree in recognition of his extraordinary achievements in the area of public affairs.

Dr. Bentley volunteered and provided free health care to the uninsured homeless through Sister Lorraine’s Kitchen Clinic and the Missouri Hotel for more than 20 years and was instrumental in the opening of a free store-front clinic, which has grown to become the Jordan Valley Community Health Center.

He served as a primary care physician and first medical director of the Jordan Valley clinic since its inception in 2002 and he established the Bentley Fund for those who cannot pay for services.

The first Missouri State University honorary doctorate was awarded in 2003. The purpose of the award is to recognize extraordinary achievements by distinguished citizens.