“Everyone must leave something behind when he dies, my grandfather said. A child or a book or a painting or a house or a wall built or a pair of shoes made. Or a garden planted. Something your hand touched some way so your soul has somewhere to go when you die, and when people look at that tree or that flower you planted, you’re there.
It doesn’t matter what you do, he said, so long as you change something from the way it was before you touched it into something that’s like you after you take your hands away.” Ray Bradbury, “Fahrenheit 451”
Dear Friends,
It seemed only fitting that we celebrate some of the many legacies that are being left at Missouri Western State University as we prepare to enter our Centennial year in 2015. For 100 years, Missouri Western has been transforming lives, leaving a legacy in our region. This would not be possible without the impact, the touch, and the legacies of each and every one of you.
As president, I am continually touched by the students, alumni, community members and families who have left their own legacies at Missouri Western.
I am touched by community members like Dan and Dale Boulware and Mark and Mary Margaret Laney, who have given of their time and talents to lead Missouri Western in our coming Centennial Capital Campaign. Their enthusiasm and passion for the University and for their community is inspiring. I am thankful for their leadership and know they will have a lasting impact on the legacy of Missouri Western and of this region (see p.16).
I am touched by families like the James and Jean Kelley family, who have supported the University for generations by sending their children and grandchildren to Missouri Western and by transforming the very face of our campus through their generous gifts.
I am touched by our donors, whose passion for the University fuels our ability to continue transforming lives. People like Steven Craig, who is actively building a legacy at the University through every student who comes through the Craig School of Business, and every new entrepreneur that graduates from Missouri Western (see p. 13).
I am touched by alumni like Jerry Partridge ’86, head football coach, and his son, Travis ’13 (see p.20). Jerry’s legacy has been told not just through the successful football program he has built but in the character of his players and of his son, who is now playing professional football.
The depth of the legacies left at Missouri Western is truly inspiring. Thanks to all of you, whose touch has transformed lives, whose hands have built our University, whose influence builds our future. It is an honor to work beside you.
Robert A. Vartabedian
President, Missouri Western State University