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Approval of the JQH Arena project budget and the naming of the newest Bronze Bear recipient highlighted today's meeting of Missouri State University's Board of Governors.
Approval of the JQH Arena project budget and the naming of the newest Bronze Bear recipient highlighted today's meeting of Missouri State University's Board of Governors.
Another topic of interest throughout the meeting was the fact that enrollment is up in all categories, including minority students and freshman.
But, Missouri State President Michael Nietzel says enrollment figures aren't the only numbers on the rise.
During his report to the board, Nietzel focused his remarks on J-Q-H Arena.
Construction on the arena is set to begin in December.
Updated designs of outside portions of the arena were revealed, which include the main and only entrance to the arena.
Nietzel says having a single entrance allows for better security, a more dramatic look to the arena and easier staffing.
Nietzel also presented an updated budget for the project and informed the board members that all 22 private suites within the arena have already been claimed.
Michael Franks is the President of the Board of Governors.
He says this announcement eases many of the concerns he had upon hearing the plans for the new arena.
One of the final announcements made during today's meeting was the naming of Missouri State's newest Bronze Bear Award recipient.
The Bronze Bear, which was first awarded in 1998 to John Q. Hammons, recognizes individuals who provide special support for the school and have a lifelong history of achievement.
Missouri State's Faculty Senate, Staff Senate, Student Government Association and Administrative Council all endorsed Thomas G. Strong as its choice for the Bronze Bear Award.
Michael Franks says he couldn't think of anyone who deserves an award like this more than Strong.
After the meeting adjourned, six former Missouri State faculty and staff members were inducted onto the school's Wall of Fame.
This year's inductee's include Kenneth Brown, Ralph Manley, Grace Palmer, J.N. Smith, Robert Trewatha and Max A. Wood.