WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Dr. M.O. “Marv” Looney, chancellor of the Missouri State University-West Plains campus from 1990-1998, was designated an “emeritus member” of the Grizzly Booster Club Board of Directors during halftime of the Feb. 14 Grizzly Basketball home game at the West Plains Civic Center.

Looney received the distinction in recognition of his “unwavering support” for the program and his efforts to get it off the ground. As chancellor, he secured funding from the university’s Board of Regents for a residence hall to house student-athletes; helped pass a city-wide sales tax to fund construction of the West Plains Civic Center, giving the student-athletes a place to play; and organized a group of community members to help raise funds to support the program. This group eventually became the booster club.

He continues to support the Grizzly Basketball and Volleyball teams through scholarship donations and his attendance at games.

For more about the Grizzly Booster Club and how you can join, visit the group’s website or call 417-255-7255.