Missouri State University will award Gov. Mike Parson the 2024 Government Excellence Award to recognize and thank him for his dedicated public service and unwavering support of the university.

As voted by the Board of Governors, the award will be presented at the fall 2024 commencement ceremony Dec. 13.

About Parson

Parson has a distinguished career in public service. It includes six years in the U.S. Army, over 22 years as Polk County sheriff and extensive political service.

He has served in the Missouri House of Representatives (2005-2011) and Missouri Senate (2011-2017), as lieutenant governor (2017-2018) and as the 57th governor of Missouri (since 2018).

As governor, he helped increase the university’s state funding by $30 million, a 35% jump. He also recommended and approved $79.5 million in capital improvements and $20 million in one-time funding to expand and enhance programs on both the Springfield and West Plains campuses.

Over the years, he has visited the campuses 14 times to commemorate milestones, make significant announcements and meet with leaders. First Lady Teresa Parson joined him on many of these visits.

Parson has appointed several Missouri State alumni to key leadership roles in his administration. In addition, he has chosen more than 50 alumni to serve on boards and commissions, county positions and in the judiciary. These include 12 judicial appointments and three members of the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education.

A vocal proponent of public higher education, Parson has consistently emphasized its importance in advancing workforce development.

“A lot of what we’ve accomplished in recent years wouldn’t have been possible without Gov. Parson’s support,” said Missouri State President Dr. Richard B. Williams. “He lives out our public affairs mission through his outstanding leadership and tireless service.”

About the Government Excellence Award

The Government Excellence Award is bestowed to government officials who exemplify leadership, support the university and have outstanding achievements.

The university president and administrative council recommend award recipients. Executive committees of the Faculty Senate, Staff Senate and Student Government Association support the nomination prior to going before the Board of Governors for approval.

Previous award recipients include Gabe Gore, Dr. Karla Eslinger and Clay Goddard.