Video of Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center under construction
Creating Philanthropic resources for Missouri State University

Missouri State Foundation

The mission of the Missouri State University Foundation is to unite with passionate supporters and donors of the university in pursuit of its goals and priorities, and to create significant philanthropic resources for the university, its students, faculty and staff, while serving as a responsible steward of those resources.
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Public Affairs
Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame 2026 inductees announced
The Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame 2026 inductees include a pioneer of the American kindergarten, a political scientist and humanitarian and a philanthropic foundation. They define the essence of public affairs and have acted consistently for the benefit of others. Susan Blow, Dr. Ken Rutherford and the Dunn Family Foundation will be recognized during a ceremony on Sept. 10.
Four smiling female students in sunglasses and casual college apparel (gray, dark green, maroon, pink) sit on green grass on a sunny day. A large gray building is behind them.
Foundation news
Missouri State Foundation receives nearly $50 million in gifts, deferred gift commitments and pledges
The commitment of Missouri State University’s alumni and friends fueled another successful year of giving. An incredible 20,735 donors supported the foundation with gifts, representing more than 1,000 additional donors compared with last year. Estate giving through bequests and other planned giving vehicles also reached one of its highest levels.
Studio photo of smiling Brent Dunn waving to the camera
Foundation news
Brent Dunn to retire from Mo State
For more than 40 years, Brent Dunn, vice president for university advancement, has built relationships that strengthened the university. He has announced he will retire July 1, 2027.
Man with blue eyes, dark wavy hair, & light stubble in a navy jacket & striped shirt, chin rested on hand, looking at camera. Grey background with three red bars top left.
Foundation news
An evening with Rainn Wilson
Rainn Wilson is coming to Missouri State as the opening keynote speaker for the 2026 Public Affairs Conference. Meet the acclaimed actor, producer, author and founder of SoulPancake before the event at an exclusive VIP reception presented by the Missouri State Foundation.
Modern building under construction: light beige block facade, dark-framed windows (one with vertical louvers), and an overhanging section on the left. Concrete forms in foreground, clear sky overhead.
Foundation news
Missouri State Foundation announces new gifts
The Missouri State University Foundation announced new gifts worth more than seven figures in a media event May 27.
Boomer and John Goodman waving while riding in the bed of a red vintage GMC pickup during the Route 66 parade
Mo State celebrates history
Scenes from the Official MO State Route 66 Parade Pre Party
See images from the Route 66 Centennial gathering before the "Celebrate History on Route 66 Parade."
Be part of something sweet
Hive of Bear Pride
It's your chance for the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center to "bear" your name. Treat your honey, your MO State grad, your cubs or anyone in your den with a honeycomb plaque. Honeycombs purchased by July will be installed when the Advancement Center opens in November.
Brent Dunn stands in a bright room making an announcement to a room full of seated people.
Foundation news
Missouri State Foundation announces $12.5M+ in new gifts
The Missouri State University Foundation announced more than $12.5 million in new gifts during its annual Board of Trustees meeting on Nov. 13. The gifts from both individuals and businesses support student scholarships, Mo State athletics, construction of the Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center and other programs and areas at Missouri State. 

 

 

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