(From Missouri Southern State University)Missouri Southern celebrated the rededication of the Ron Richard Athletic Center Thursday, formally and forever recognizing a man who had an enormous impact on the university, Joplin, and the entire state.
A large monument sign recognizing the new name was unveiled, along with a bronze plaque and other indoor signage recognizing the building’s new name. It was formerly known as the North End Zone Facility until the Board of Governors unanimously voted last year to rename the athletics facility it in honor of Richard.
Several local dignitaries, including Richard’s wife Patty Richard, were on hand for the public unveiling Thursday. It was a historic day for the University.
“The Ron Richard Athletic Center will continue to serve our students and community as one of the most visible facilities on our campus,” Missouri Southern President Dr. Dean Van Galen said. “Moreover, it will recognize a man who had a tremendous impact on not only Missouri Southern, but also the City of Joplin, Southwest Missouri, and the entire State of Missouri. “
In November, the Missouri Southern State University’s Board of Governors voted to rename a building on campus in honor of Richard, their former colleague and a well-known community leader. Following heartfelt words by the Governors about Richard, Governors chose to rename the North End Zone facility in the campus’ Plaster Sports Complex in Richard’s honor.
Governor Richard was appointed to the MSSU Board of Governors on Nov. 6, 2019, and served until his death last year. He previously served in both the State Senate and House of Representatives – the only person to ever hold the top leadership position in both bodies -- and as Mayor of Joplin. He was an alumnus of Missouri Southern as well.
“Ron Richard was a unique and caring person, and a highly effective public servant and leader,” Governor Anita Oplotnik, the chair of MSSU’s Board of Governors, told the crowd Thursday. “He left a legacy of positivity affecting the people of Joplin, the region, and Missouri. And, certainly, that positive impact includes the students, faculty and staff of Missouri Southern State University.”
The now-Ron Richard Athletic Center is not only the epicenter of the university’s athletic administration and football operations; it is often utilized by the community for various events, meetings and celebrations due to its large community rooms and public access areas. The building is also centrally located at the intersection of Newman and Duquesne roads on the east side of Missouri Southern’s campus.
The naming idea was originally circulated in a letter to Van Galen from Dan Stanley, a friend of Richard and a Missouri Southern graduate. He suggested the North End Zone be named for Richard because of the building’s strong ties to the community, as well as how the symbolism of athletics was reflected through Richard’s career in public service.
Stanley was present Thursday and gave remarks in tribute of his friend.
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