Donna Bassham, West Plains, former director of financial aid at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP), received the Distinguished Faculty/Staff Award Thursday evening, May 2, during the annual Alumni and Friends Picnic hosted by the MSU-WP office of university advancement.

The award recognizes extraordinary service among former MSU-WP employees. Among the qualities considered are professional and/or academic achievements, as well as a demonstrated commitment to the university’s mission.

Nominees must have been employed by the university for at least five years and must not currently be employed by the Missouri State University System.

Those nominating Bassham for the award noted her tireless efforts to oversee millions of dollars in financial aid awarded students during her 28 years of service to the university.

Because the rules and regulations for financial aid are constantly changing, Bassham was diligent in her efforts to make sure MSU-WP was in compliance, often coming in early, leaving late and working on weekends to complete the necessary tasks and paperwork involved.

Her commitment to her duties, the students, her co-workers and the university as a whole earned her the MSU Staff Excellence in University Service Award.