In the spirit of those who established Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) over 60 years ago, campus officials presented John and Dixie Williams, West Plains, with the prestigious Granvil Vaughan Founder’s Award during Saturday’s commencement ceremony at the West Plains Civic Center.
The award, named in honor of the campus’ founder, the late Missouri State Rep. Granvil Vaughan, was presented to the Williamses by MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster. The award is given annually at commencement to recognize individuals who have made a significant impact upon the mission of MSU-WP. The Williamses, who are alumni of Missouri State University, are the 25th recipients of the award.
“We are deeply grateful to John and Dixie Williams for their extraordinary generosity and steadfast support of Missouri State University-West Plains,” Chancellor Dennis Lancaster said. “Their commitment to our students, especially through their investment in our Grizzly Sports programs, is a testament to their belief in the power of education, athletics and community. Their philanthropic spirit continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of our student-athletes and the future of our campus.”
Williamses’ support has been far reaching
The Williamses support of the university in West Plains and Springfield goes back decades and includes numerous projects and initiatives. Some of these are:
- The TJ Swift House ASCEND Program
- The School of Accountancy at MSU
- Agriculture programs
- The College of Business at MSU
- The William H. Darr College of Agriculture at MSU
- The Friends of the Garnett Library
- The Sweetheart Auction
- The John and Dixie Williams Endowed Scholarship
- The Grizzly Golf Classic
- The Mynde Tarter Memorial Endowed Scholarship
- Other Grizzly Athletics programs
- Other endowed scholarships
Support by people such as the Williamses ensure MSU-WP continues to thrive and provide educational opportunities to area residents for years to come, according to Director of Athletics Rachel Peterson.
“John and Dixie Williams are not only extremely generous, but they are also incredibly humble. They have supported Missouri State-West Plains in a number of ways for decades, always wanting to help our students and program initiatives,” she said. “While many people know the Williamses connection to Grizzly Athletics through Hirsch Feed and Farm Supply, they also work with our campus to provide internships and other support behind the scenes. What a wonderful tribute to our friends, John and Dixie!”
For more information about the Granvil Vaughan Founder’s Award, visit WP.MissouriState.edu/UniversityAdvancement/Founders-Award.