For generations of civic leadership and generosity that have strengthened Missouri State University and the Springfield community, the Thompson family is this year’s recipient of the Bronze Bear Award. 

“For more than four decades, the Thompson family has been a constant friend to Missouri State,” said Brent Dunn, president and CEO of the Missouri State University Foundation. “Their generosity has touched students, programs and communities across our campus, and their loyalty as Bear fans is just as strong.  

“We’re deeply grateful for their support and proud to see them receive the Bronze Bear.”
The Board of Governors approved the award Oct. 16. It recognizes individuals for special support and achievement at Missouri State. 

A family legacy 

The Thompson family owns and operates Thompson Sales Co., one of the region’s oldest family-owned automobile dealerships. The business traces its roots to 1919, when George M. Thompson Sr. established the company in Springfield. 

After the 1991 death of George M. Thompson Jr., Lynn Thompson and his brother, George M. Thompson III, became third-generation owners and presidents. Today, the fourth generation, including Miles Thompson and Tyler Thompson, serves in company leadership roles. 

George M. Thompson III passed away in 2017. He was a Springfield native and longtime co-owner and CEO of Thompson Sales Co. During his nearly five decades with the business, he helped guide the company’s growth while serving in numerous civic and professional leadership roles.  

He was active with the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Missouri Automobile Dealers Association and Drury University’s Board of Trustees, among other organizations. George and his wife, Patricia, raised two children, Miles and Emily Givens, who, together with their spouses, Cindy Thompson and Drew Givens, remain active stewards of the family’s legacy. 

Throughout his career, Lynn has supported charitable and civic initiatives that strengthen Springfield. He and his wife, Karen, have given to organizations focused on youth, families and community well-being. Their children, Tyler Thompson and Alex Thompson, and their spouses, Sara and Marin, continue the family’s tradition of leadership and service.  

Supporting Mo State 

Since the start of the Missouri State University Foundation in 1981, the Thompson family has consistently supported the university. Their generosity has supported academic programs and benefited other areas across campus, including Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, Ozarks Public Television, Greenwood Laboratory School and Missouri State Athletics. 

Several members of the family are longtime season ticket holders, always cheering on the Bears. 

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 Bill Rowe, Bryan Magers, Sen. Roy Blunt and John Goodman.