MSU to present Dr. Bentley with honorary doctorate

Missouri State University selected Dr. John Bentley to receive its 20th honorary doctorate.

Bentley, one of the founding doctors of Jordan Valley Community Health Center, is scheduled to receive the recognition in May during MSU’s spring commencement, according to a news release.

“He epitomizes the public service this degree was intended to recognize,” said selection committee Chairwoman Cynthia Hail, MSU professor of childhood education and families studies, in the release. “He has made a significant impact in helping thousands of people through his dedication to health care in this community, as well as the surrounding areas, that will be remembered fondly and respectfully.”

Approved by the MSU Board of Governors on Dec. 11 with recommendations from President Clif Smart and the Faculty Senate, the honorary doctorate is intended to recognize community achievements.

Bentley served as Jordan Valley’s first medical director when it opened in 2002. A primary care physician, he started the Bentley Fund - which is supported by an annual 5K run - for those who cannot afford medical services at the clinic, according to the release. After earning his medical degree in 1964 from the University of Pennsylvania and finishing training in internal medicine in 1968 at the University of Wisconsin, he practiced medicine at Mercy Hospital Springfield for 35 years.  

For over 20 years, Bentley volunteered to help the homeless through Sister Lorraine’s Kitchen Clinic and the Missouri Hotel. He’s also served on several organizations and boards, including Ozarks Greenways, March of Dimes and United Way of the Ozarks.

The physician has taken home a host of awards for his efforts.

The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce this year named Bentley its 2015 Springfieldian. He also won Springfield Business Journal’s 2014 Lifetime Achievement in Business Award, and he received Community Foundation of the Ozarks’ Humanitarian Award in 2002 and the Missourian Award in 2010.