“Thank you!”

Those were the words spoken most often Thursday evening, March 3, when officials at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) recognized MSU System President Clif Smart during the annual Alumni and Friends Picnic.

Smart announced in September 2023 that he would retire at the end of this academic year, June 30, and MSU-WP officials took a few moments at the picnic to show their appreciation for his support and leadership the past 13 years.

MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster praised Smart’s steady hand in guiding the university through the pandemic and noted his support allowed the university to add several physical features and academic programs to the campus.

These include Gohn Hall, Hass-Darr Hall, the Student Recreation Center, amphitheater, the Pace Industrial Science Center and 17 new degree and certificate programs.

In brief remarks, Smart said from the moment he became president he believed his duties applied not only to the Springfield campus, but also the West Plains, Mountain Grove and extended campuses overseas and he worked for the betterment of all of the campuses.

As a token of appreciation, Lancaster presented Smart with a framed photo of Smart speaking at a recent MSU-WP commencement ceremony that was signed by a representative group of MSU-WP students.