Missouri State marks 110th year this week

Missouri State University will mark two milestones this week — 110 years since it opened and a decade since the big name change.

“It’s 110 hours of celebration that starts on Tuesday,” said Brent Dunn, vice president for university advancement.

Tuesday is the actual birthday as well as St. Patrick’s Day. So, while many will don green that day, Bears near and far are expected to be draped in white and maroon.

Activities kick off Tuesday and will wrap up Saturday. There are special events, fundraisers and a public affairs component aimed at showing how alumni, students, faculty and staff make a difference in their communities and give back to the university.

While numerous events are planned on the Springfield campus, much of the celebration is also expected to happen on social media. Here are some of the highlights:

•Tuesday — The Alumni Association will host the university’s 110th birthday bash at 11 a.m. in Plaster Student Union. There will be a birthday cake, birthday card signing and photo opportunities.

“That’s the kickoff,” Dunn said. “It’s to educate about the history of Missouri State and the importance of the celebration.”

•Friday — The Missouri State University Foundation will host the 110th Birthday Living History Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. in Plaster Student Union Ballroom. The cost to attend the event is $10.

Historians will portray two of Missouri State’s most beloved academic legends, William Carrington and Virginia Craig, for a history lesson that will span the decades, according to a news release. A buffet will be provided, and tickets can be purchased online or by calling 836-4143.

President Clif Smart is also expected to talk about the future of the institution.

A “Bears in the Know” segment this week will also highlight 110 people, associated with the university, who “live out the public affairs mission.”

“It’s just to show no matter what degree you have, what you do in the world, there is a connect with public affairs,” he said.

•The university will also raise funds all week. Alumni will be encouraged to give back to the university by donating $11, $110 or another amount to the Missouri State Foundation. An e-solicitation campaign with begin on Tuesday to the university’s 110,000 living alumni.

Current students will also raise funds to bolster the student emergency funds. Participants will be eligible for various incentives, including T-shirts.

“Some lucky student will get to park in President Smart’s parking space for a week,” Dunn said. “So Clif will have to walk to work.”

•Saturday — The Family Association will host Spring Family Day 2015 at 1 p.m. at Hammons Field. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for MSU students and children ages 2-12. As part of the birthday celebration, the Bears baseball team will take on Indiana State.

•Those associated with the university can participate by posting about themselves or a friend who makes a difference in the community and tagging #CitizenBear and #BirthdayBears on social media.