MSU award going to former athletics director

One of Missouri State University's top annual awards is going to its former athletics director.

Bill Rowe is scheduled to be honored at the fall commencement ceremony on Dec. 12 with the Bronze Bear Award, according to a news release. The award, which comes with a replica of the 14-foot bear statute in front of MSU's Plaster Student Union, recognizes achievement and support for the university.

“Bill’s a permanent presence on our campus and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award,” MSU President Richard "Biff" Williams said in the release. “He dedicated a large part of his life and gave his heart to Missouri State. His unmatched loyalty and generosity have left an impact we’ll never forget.”

A 1961 graduate of MSU, Rowe worked for 19 years at the school as head baseball coach, athletics business manager and assistant athletics director before becoming athletics director in 1982. He held that role through 2009, when he retired.

As athletics director, Rowe is credited with assisting the university in its move to NCAA Division I and the Missouri Valley Conference, the expansion of sports programs and the development of facilities. A school donor, he's also a trustee on the MSU Foundation board, and in 2021 he and wife Nydia established an endowment for baseball student-athletes.

Rowe joins a list of Bronze Bear Award honorees that include former MSU President Clif Smart in 2024, as well as former U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, actor John Goodman and developer Bryan Magers.