Why I Give

The reason Dr. John and Nancy Messick have made it a priority to provide financial support to the university over the years is really quite simple.

“I feel like Missouri Southern has invested quite a bit in Nancy and myself,” says John, a professor emeritus in the Biology & Environmental Health Department.

In fact, it was at MSSU that the couple, who have been married for more than 35 years, first met.

Nancy earned her associate’s degree from Missouri Southern in 1976, and later took a position as secretary for the science and math departments.

“John joined the faculty on a one-year appointment,” she says. “We dated from afar as he finished up his doctorate work and taught in Kansas City. Thank goodness a tenure track position opened here.”

When he rejoined the biology faculty, Nancy had moved on to another department and later served as administrative assistant for former President Julio León. They were married in 1985. In addition to teaching, John served for a number of years as department chair, and later as the Dean of Arts & Sciences. He served for a brief period as Vice President of Academic Affairs before returning to the classroom. Nancy retired in 2007, while John was named Faculty Emeritus after he retired in the spring of 2013, and has continued to teach nearly every semester.

The couple have given back to the university in a variety of ways, including providing funds to scholarships, the Green & Gold fund, and in memory of former colleagues. They are among the most long-standing members of the Loyal Lions recognition society – having given gifts each year, dating back to 1988.

“Students need the resources to get their education,” says Nancy. “And at Missouri Southern, they get more one-on-one time with their instructors.”

“I really believe that a university education is an experience that requires a lot of time and commitment,” John says. “If we can help offset (the cost) so they can concentrate more on their studies, so much the better.”

Donors are recognized as Loyal Lions after making gifts for three consecutive years. They receive a certificate each year, recognition on the website and invitations to special events. To make a gift to the Missouri Southern Foundation, please call 417-625-3104 or 417-625-9622. To make a gift online, visit www.mssu.edu/giving.

3950 East Newman Road Joplin, Missouri 64801

If you are a parent of an alum and they no longer live with you, please call 417-659-LION or visit www.mssu.edu/alumnicontact to update their contact information!