Office of University Communications 

Missouri State University Foundation elects officers, adds members

SPRINGFIELD — The Missouri State University Foundation recently elected officers for 2007-08. In addition, three new members were added to its Board of Directors.

The Foundation officers are: Pat Sechler, Springfield, president; and Joe Turner, Springfield, vice president. Three Missouri State staff members will continue in their positions: Cindy Busby, secretary; Kent Kay, treasurer; and Nila Hayes, assistant treasurer.

New to the Foundation Board are: Jim Buford, St. Louis, Mo.; Kim Dake, West Plains; and Mike Ingram, Springfield. Larry Frazier, Hollister; and Dr. Peggy Pearl, Springfield, were both selected for their second terms on the board.

“We are honored to have so many dedicated people to assist Missouri State in our development efforts,” said Brent Dunn, vice president for advancement and executive director of the Missouri State University Foundation. “I am confident with our new board members and those who continue on the board, we can have an outstanding year.”

The Missouri State University Foundation was established in 1981 as the fund-raising arm of the university. Since 1981, the Foundation has received $120 million in outright gifts and another $39 million in deferred gifts has been committed. 

On June 30, the Missouri State Foundation completed its 2006-07 year, the second best in history with $10.9 million in gifts received; the $11.8 million in 2005-06 set the record. In 2006-07, the Foundation received more than 34,000 gifts. The Foundation’s endowment now stands at more than $56 million.