PLAQUES WERE PRESENTED to this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipient Dr. John Mulford, superintendent of the West Plains R-7 School District, and Distinguished Faculty/Staff Award recipient Dr. Ed McKinney, former professor of history, during the annual Missouri State University Alumni Association’s spring picnic for alumni and friends Thursday, May 7, at the West Plains Civic Center exhibit hall. Approximately 210 attended the event, which gives area alumni and friends an opportunity to hear about the latest activities, events and accomplishments of the university. The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes a Missouri State University alumnus who has made extraordinary achievements in his or her personal and professional endeavors and has shown notable success in his or her profession or business, loyalty to the university and outstanding contributions to society. The Distinguished Faculty/Staff Award recognizes extraordinary service among former employees of Missouri State-West Plains. From left above are Missouri State University System President Clif Smart, McKinney, Mulford and Missouri State-West Plains Chancellor Drew Bennett. (Missouri State-West Plains Photos)