In recognition of his consistent and long-standing support for Missouri State University, the Board of Governors voted today (Oct. 14) to award the Government Excellence Award to Dr. Michael Nietzel.

The Government Excellence Award recognizes extraordinary achievement and outstanding support for the university by a current or former elected or appointed government official.

Nietzel served as the president of Missouri State University from 2005-10. As a senior policy adviser to Governor Jay Nixon since 2010, he has been actively engaged in selecting members of Missouri State’s Board of Governors and has been directly involved in Governor Nixon’s budget development and higher education policy decisions.

“We couldn’t be more pleased to recognize Dr. Mike Nietzel with the Government Excellence Award this year,” said Missouri State President Clifton M. Smart III.

“Dr. Nietzel has supported Missouri State in his role as senior policy adviser to Governor Jay Nixon. He played a critical role in Missouri State receiving record funding this year and for the state’s investment in capital projects like the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center and Glass, Ellis and Hill halls. The support of public servants like Dr. Nietzel is essential to Missouri State’s continued growth and development.”

As president of Missouri State, Nietzel led the development of IDEA Commons, which is now a cornerstone of downtown Springfield re-development. JQH Arena was also built during his tenure.

Nietzel will be presented with the award at commencement on Dec. 16.

About the Government Excellence Award

The Government Excellence Award includes a framed resolution and a bronze bear in an upright position mounted on a base. The statue was designed by former Missouri State art professor Dr. Jim Hill. A 14-foot statue version of the bronze bear is located just north of Missouri State’s Plaster Student Union.

This is the second year this award has been presented. The first recipient was Senator Mike Parson.

Recipients of the Government Excellence Award are recommended by the university president and administrative council and supported by the executive committees of the Faculty Senate, Staff Senate and Student Government Association, prior to going before the Board of Governors for approval.