Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center

Construction on Missouri State University's Clifton M. Smart III University Advancement Center is now underway. The building, located at the northwest corner of National Avenue and Bear Boulevard, is a project that promises to play a major role in the university’s future. It is expected to open in fall 2026.

About the building

Images from the event

"This marks a historic moment for Missouri State. This facility will be the heart of our efforts to engage alumni, strengthen partnerships, and secure the future of the university through philanthropy. It is not just about building a new structure—it is about creating a lasting foundation for generations of Bears to come."

-Brent Dunn, Executive Director of the Missouri State Foundation

The Missouri State Foundation has also secured more than $7,440,000 in naming gifts for the building, with more gifts expected as construction progresses. In total, the Foundation has contributed over $20.8 million to this project, including the sale of the Kenneth E. Meyer Alumni Center to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks.

The 28,000-square-foot, two-story building will serve as a central hub for university advancement. It will house several key areas, including development, engagement and alumni relations, athletics development, advancement services and university advancement relations, as well as the Missouri State University Foundation and Alumni Association.

Some exciting features include a nearly 200-person event center, two conference rooms, an executive boardroom, a living room, a traditions hall and an outdoor courtyard where the MSU community can gather and celebrate.

J.E. Dunn Construction Co. has been selected as the construction manager at risk for the project. The initial funding for the center came from an anonymous seven-figure donation, announced in April 2024.

As the construction continues, we can look forward to more updates—and more reasons to celebrate the spirit of Missouri State University.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, the vision of this center is becoming a reality. The following have made gift commitments for namings within the new university advancement center:

Anonymous, for the Clifton M. Smart III Advancement Center
Kenneth E. and Jane A. Meyer Foundation, for the Kenneth E. Meyer Event Center
Mary and Jeff Schrag, for the Mary and Jeff Schrag Courtyard
Matthew and Patricia Harthcock, for the Dr. Matthew ’77 and Patricia Harthcock Reception Hall and the Dr. Matthew ‘77 and Patricia Harthcock BearMobile
Beverly Miller Keltner, for the Jack Miller and Beverly Miller Keltner Family Conference Room
Mike and Judy Breeding, for the Mike and Judy Breeding Conference Room
John Foster, for the John Foster Patio and Courtyard
Carol, Andy and Dana Kuntz, for the Kuntz Family Foyer
Billy and Carolin Hixon  
Rich and Cindy Miller, for the Rich and Cindy Miller Guest Information Suite
Dan Cobb, for the Dan Cobb North Welcome Entrance
Bradley Thomas, for the Bradley Thomas South Welcome Entrance
Richard and Teresa Ollis, for the Richard and Teresa Ollis Executive Patio
Greg and Cheryl Beck, for the Gregory A. and Cheryl J. Beck Catering and Staging Area
Karen Horny, for the Teri Trickey Catering Kitchen
Greg and Jennifer Spears, for the Spears Family Sitting Area
Scott Carter in memory of his parents, for the Carole R. and A. Bruce Carter Reception Area
Anthony and Danielle Biggers, for the Anthony and Danielle Biggers Sitting Area
Mark and Tina Stillwell, for the Mark and Tina Stillwell Assistant Vice President for Development & Strategy Office
Jeff and Amy Counts, for the Jeffrey and Amelia Counts Advancement Office
Earnest and Aaren Muex, for the Earnest and Aaren ’02 Muex Executive Director of Engagement & Alumni Relations Office
Anonymous, for the Advancement Office
James H. ("Jim") Wilson, for the Jim Wilson Break Room