Chamber names 2016 Springfieldian

The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce tonight named Bill Kirkman its 2016 Springfieldian, the organization’s top honor.

Kirkman, who worked 40 years and rose to chief operating officer at BKD LLP before retiring in 2009, was honored during the chamber’s annual meeting at University Plaza Convention Center. 

In 2004, Kirkman was named the first COO in BKD’s history. During his time with the company, where he also worked as partner and leader of the southern Missouri practice, BKD grew to a $500 million firm from $8 million. 

In choosing him as Springfieldian, chamber officials also noted his work to improve the area economy and community.

Kirkman was instrumental in securing BKD’s current headquarters, 910 St. Louis St., and he also was a lead volunteer in the development of the Partnership Industrial Center in northeast Springfield, according to the release.

A 1969 graduate of Missouri State University, Kirkman in 2004 was given the school’s Outstanding Alumni award.

His community contributions include:
    •    serving on the board for City Utilities, including as chairman in 2014;
    •    helping the BKD Foundation distribute over $10 million in communities the firm serves in 15 states, including $1.5 million to charities in southwest Missouri;
    •    chairing the Springfield chamber board in 1990, the Center City Development Corp. in 1995 and the Springfield-Branson National Airport board in 2005; and
    •    working as president of the Springfield Business Development Corp. in 1995.

The chamber began honoring Springfieldians annually in 1957 with the selection of Durward G. Hall, and in 2015, selected Dr. John Bentley, a founding doctor of Jordan Valley Community Health Center.