For being a true Missouri State University legend who has embodied Bear pride for more than six decades, former athletics director and baseball head coach Bill Rowe is this year’s recipient of the Bronze Bear Award.

Missouri State will honor Rowe with the award during a fall 2025 commencement ceremony Dec. 12.

“Bill’s a permanent presence on our campus and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award,” said President Richard B. Williams. “He dedicated a large part of his life and gave his heart to Missouri State. His unmatched loyalty and generosity have left an impact we’ll never forget.”

The Board of Governors approved the award today (Oct. 3). It recognizes individuals for special support and achievement at Missouri State.

Alumnus to longtime supporter

Since enrolling as a freshman in 1957 at what was then Southwest Missouri State College, Rowe has been an integral part of the university over the years — as a successful student-athlete, respected administrator and generous donor.

A 1961 graduate, he spent 19 years (1963-82) as head baseball coach, athletics business manager and assistant athletics director before becoming athletics director in 1982. In that role, he oversaw the university’s move to NCAA Division I and the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC); expanded sports programs; and led the development and improvement of facilities.

After 52 years of service, Rowe retired in 2009 but remained one of Missouri State’s most visible and active supporters. He volunteers his time to assist with fundraising projects in athletics.

He also serves as a trustee on the Missouri State Foundation Board of Trustees and is a major donor. His generosity has supported both academic excellence and athletic achievement across the university.

Most notably, in 2021, Rowe and his wife, Nydia, established an endowment to provide Cost of Attendance stipends for Missouri State baseball student-athletes, a landmark gift that continues to impact the program.

Awards and accolades

Rowe’s decades of service and leadership earned him many honors at the local, state and national levels. They include:

• MVC Hall of Fame (2018)
• Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Missouri Sports Legend (2016)
• Missouri State Wall of Fame inductee (2015)
• National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics Hall of Fame (2009)
• Missouri State Lifetime Achievement Award (2008)
• MVC John Sanders Spirit of the Valley Award (2004)
• Missouri Sports Hall of Fame (2004)
• Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame (1998)
• Missouri State Athletics Hall of Fame (1994)
• American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame (1988)
• Missouri State Outstanding Alumnus Award (1988)

About the Bronze Bear

Former Missouri State art professor Dr. Jim Hill designed the award in 1998. A 14-foot statue version of the Bronze Bear mounted on a 3-foot concrete base is located just north of Missouri State’s Plaster Student Union.

The university president and administrative council recommend Bronze Bear recipients. The executive committees of the Faculty Senate, Staff Senate and Student Government Association support the nominations. The Board of Governors has final approval.

Previous Bronze Bear recipients include Bryan Magers, Clif Smart, Sen. Roy Blunt, Tim Reynolds and Judith Enyeart Reynolds and John Goodman.