Success is not only what you have done, but how you did it. It is hard work, perseverance, learning and more than anything – a love for what you do.  

The Missouri State University Board of Governors voted today to induct six individuals who found that professional love into the Wall of Fame.  

The 2023 inductees are Dr. Bradley Fisher, Dr. Gloria Galanes, Mary Kay Hunter, Dave MacKay, Dr. Robert Lee Norton and John Wall. 

Honoring long-time employees

Former employees with lasting legacies are selected for the honor annually. This class of inductees represents 179 years of service to the university. 

 The Wall of Fame already includes 135 individuals. With the 2023 class, the Wall of Fame now recognizes 141.  

About the 2023 class  

Dr. Bradley Fisher 

Fisher (Aug. 15, 1988-July 31, 2016) expanded, coordinated and directed the university’s gerontology program for over a quarter of a century. Through his work ethic and extensive service to the university, he is an embodiment of the public affairs mission: to lend one’s energy and expertise to help improve the quality of life in our community.   

Dr. Gloria Galanes 

Galanes (Aug. 25, 1986-Sept. 31, 2017) led with transparency. If she didn’t know the answer to a question, she would say so, but in so doing, would also emphasize the fundamental need to remain a lifelong learner. Former dean of the Reynolds College of Arts and Letters, Galanes has a history of meaningful service to the university and mentorship of her students. 

Mary Kay Hunter 

Hunter (Aug. 1, 1966-Dec. 19, 1997) spent countless hours at the ballpark overseeing a softball program that taught not only fundamental softball skills, but also one that provided athletic development, teamwork opportunities and spirited competition. Under her leadership as head coach, the women’s softball team took the mound seven times in the College World Series. 

Dave MacKay 

MacKay (July 1, 1970-Nov. 28, 1986) was a campus activities trailblazer. Before the days of Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, MacKay took a group of college students and taught them how to produce a concert in an old field house. He was always there with a ready smile, a listening ear and a bit of advice. 

Dr. Robert Lee Norton 

Norton (Sept. 1, 1968-July 31, 2016) is remembered as the kindest and most supportive friend, mentor, leader and colleague. He was a passionate Hispanist and advocate for all things language and culture. He left his mark on the World Languages and Cultures department through nearly 50 years in the classroom, his pioneering outreach and his efforts to reach minority students. 

John Wall 

Wall (Jan. 1, 1990-March 15, 2015) mentored dozens of students, created a visual record of university life and pitched in with any and all “other duties as assigned.” He spent 25 years as director of photo services covering thousands of assignments and keeping up with an extensive archive. He inspired many student photographers who are now successful photographers themselves. 

The induction ceremony  

The 2023 honorees will have their plaques added to the wall outside of the Plaster Student Union Grand Ballroom at a formal ceremony during Homecoming.  

The ceremony will be at 4 p.m., Oct. 20. It is free and open to the public. 

Selection criteria  

In addition to nominations from current or past members of the campus community, the former faculty or staff member must have:  

• Significantly contributed to the success and positive collegiate experience of students.  
• Worked full time at Missouri State for at least 10 years.  
• Stopped working full time at MSU for the past five years.