The Missouri State University Board of Governors voted today (Oct. 27) to award the Government Excellence Award to Sen. Roy Blunt.

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

“Senator Blunt has always been a friend to the university,” said Missouri State President Clif Smart. “His support and leadership in Congress and the Senate have helped bring millions of dollars to Missouri State University.”

Blunt has advocated for significant investment to support Missouri State’s academics, research and economic development. He helped the university secure grants, external contracts and an appropriation that enabled the university to construct the Roy D. Blunt Jordan Valley Innovation Center.

In October 2016, as chairman of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, Blunt also played a key role in extending the invitation for the Missouri State Chorale to perform at the 2017 inauguration.

About the Governmental Excellence Award

The Governmental 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 third year this award has been presented. Prior recipients include Sen. Mike Parson and Dr. Michael Nietzel.

Recipients of the Governmental 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.