Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) celebrated the outstanding achievements of its students, faculty, and staff during the annual Celebration of Leaders student awards ceremony on April 24 at the West Plains Civic Center.
The event recognized excellence in academics, leadership, service, and student life, while also serving as the official installation ceremony for the incoming Student Government Association (SGA) leadership.
Max Bittle of Houston and Michell Robles of West Plains were sworn in as the 2025-2026 SGA president and vice president, respectively. The oath of office was administered by outgoing SGA President Mo Totty of West Plains.
A range of individual awards were presented during the evening, highlighting the contributions of students, faculty, and staff across campus:
- Campus Service Award: Mo Totty, West Plains
- Multicultural/International Leadership Award: Sara Horstman, West Plains
- Outstanding Corps of Opportunity Award: Kennedy Eckley, Dixon; Makayla Malone, Salem
- First Generation Award: Javian Downey, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty Mentor Award: Dr. Jason McCollom, Associate Professor of History
- Staff Appreciation Award: Dr. Angela Totty, Vice Chancellor of Student Services
- Outstanding Student Employee of the Year: Sam MacPherson, Mountain Grove
- Outstanding Student Ambassador: Lydia Davis, West Plains
- Community Service Award: Tyler Hough, Alton
- Outstanding Resident of the Year: Jayanna Draper, Lynchburg
- Resident Assistant of the Year: Sam Stockle, Thayer
- Outstanding Cheer Team Athlete: Aubrey Hull, Essex
- Outstanding Volleyball Athlete: Gibby Beckler, Phillipsburg
- Outstanding Basketball Athlete: Ryan Richardson, Hollywood, Florida
- Outstanding Softball Athlete: Hadley Wilson, Kennett
- Outstanding Baseball Athlete: Keaton Ford, Fayetteville, Arkansas
- Outstanding Rodeo Athlete: Koby Usmar, Farson, Wyoming
- Outstanding Esports Athlete: Sara Horstman, West Plains
- Outstanding Academic Achievement and Leadership Award: Jordyn Belle Sigman, West Plains
- Outstanding Student Leader Award: Abby Mulnik, Branson
The event celebrated not only academic accomplishments but also the spirit of community and service that defines the MSU-WP experience. Photos from the event are available in the 2025 Celebration of Leaders photo album on the official MSU-WP Facebook page.
