Award Nominations

Sallie Beard, a visionary leader and MSSU alumna (Class of 1972), is widely credited as the founding architect of women’s athletics at Missouri Southern State University. In 1974, she responded to student-led enthusiasm by launching the university's inaugural women’s teams—basketball, softball, and tennis with a modest combined budget of just $2,000. She would become the inaugural coach of MSSU’s storied Track & Field program. Her pioneering efforts catalyzed the expansion of women’s sports into a flourishing program of eight sports that now operates on a multi-million-dollar scale. 

Over a 37-year career at MSSU, Sallie served not only as a coach but also as Women’s Athletic Director for 25 years and, in 2001, became the university’s first Athletic Director to oversee both men’s and women’s programs. She helped guide the athletics department through its transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II, initiated the construction of the Pat Lipira Softball Complex and oversaw substantial improvements to Hughes stadium in 2003. Under her leadership, Missouri Southern had an Academic Success Rate of 87 percent, at the time, 36 percent higher than the general student population at MSSU.

Sallie’s leadership extended beyond campus. She held pivotal roles in NCAA Division II, including serving on the NCAA Committee on Women’s Athletics—where she helped shape Title IX interpretive language in collaboration with the Office of Civil Rights—and later joined the Division II Management Council. She also broke new ground as MIAA President, the first athletics director to hold that post. 

Her accolades reflect her extraordinary legacy: induction into the MSSU Athletics Hall of Fame (1992), Joplin Sports Hall of Fame (2004), MIAA Hall of Fame (inaugural class, 2010), and Missouri Sports Hall of Fame (2017). In 2014, she received the Nike Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Association of Collegiate Women Athletics Administrators.

Beyond athletics, Sallie exemplifies the Lion-Hearted spirit through her community service. In the aftermath of Joplin’s devastating 2011 tornado, she led volunteer housing coordination efforts. She also served on the Joplin Schools Board of Education, the Missouri Southern Foundation Board (former President), and the Lafayette House Board. Sallie is no stranger to campus even after 15 years of retirement devoting hours of volunteer service for MSSU's Holiday Happenings, planting flowers for the Adopt a Flowerbed program and attending many University sponsored events.

James Jordan was born and raised in Texas and Webb City, Missouri. After earning a BA inTheater from Missouri Southern State University in 2002, he received his MFA in Acting from UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television in 2005. He quickly began guest-starring on prime-time television dramas including CSI, Without a Trace, Close to Home, and The Mentalist. Jordan went on to land memorable recurring roles on the CW’s Veronica Mars and HBO’s True Blood, along with pivotal film work in Seraphim Falls, Home, The Endless, Seberg (opposite Kristen Stewart), and Karyn Kusama’s Destroyer (opposite Nicole Kidman).

In 2017, Jordan’s supporting lead performance in Wind River, opposite Jeremy Renner, marked the beginning of his long-standing collaboration with writer-director Taylor Sheridan. Sheridan cast him in recurring roles on Paramount’s Yellowstone, 1883, and Mayor of Kingstown, and in the Warner Bros. thriller Those Who Wish Me Dead opposite Angelina Jolie.

In 2023, Jordan was cast as a series regular on Sheridan’s spy thriller Lioness, a Paramount+ ratings hit, and currently plays Dale in Sheridan’s Landman, marking their seventh collaboration.

He lives in Santa Clarita, California with his fiancée Deb, their 8 chickens, 2 dogs, 1 cat, and Herbie the tortoise.

In 2023, Jordan was cast as a series regular on Sheridan’s spy thriller Lioness, a Paramount+ ratings hit, and currently plays Dale in Sheridan’s Landman, marking their seventh collaboration.

He lives in Santa Clarita, California with his fiancée Deb, their 8 chickens, 2 dogs, 1 cat, and Herbie the tortoise.

Ryan Sprowls earned his degree in Economics & Finance from Missouri Southern State University in 1999, where he served as President of the MSSU Investment Club and completed an internship with Franklin Financial Services. His financial career began early—he secured his securities registrations while still in college—setting the stage for a lifelong commitment to helping others navigate their financial futures.

After graduation, Ryan joined A.G. Edwards in St. Louis, where he refined his expertise in investment strategy and client-focused advising. Driven by a vision to offer more personalized and principled financial guidance, he later founded 114 Private Wealth, a firm built on the values of thoughtful strategy, individualized service, and an unwavering commitment to putting clients first.

Over the years, Ryan has been consistently recognized among the nation’s top financial advisors. He has appeared on Barron’s Top 1200 Advisors list every year from 2015 to 2024 and has been ranked among Forbes’ Top 250 Wealth Advisors since the list’s inception in 2016.

Yet for Ryan, accolades are secondary to the deep, lasting relationships he builds with clients. His mission is to simplify complex financial concepts and empower individuals to make informed decisions—whether it’s retirement planning, estate strategies, or investment management. A former track and field athlete, Ryan brings the same discipline, structure, and consistency to wealth management that he once brought to the track.

His favorite part of the job? Helping people. He lives by the belief that “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail,” and finds deep fulfillment in delivering meaningful value to families and witnessing the long-term impact of a well-executed financial plan.

Outside of work, Ryan is a devoted husband to Maysoon, a global marketing director, and proud father to Bryanna, a firefighter and business owner. He is also passionate about giving back. Through the Ryan C. Sprowls Fast Track to Finance Scholarship at his alma mater, he supports finance students and track athletes. He remains an active mentor to young professionals and supports organizations such as the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the National MS Society.

Mark Williams is the President and Chief Executive Officer of H.E. Williams, Inc., a leading  
U.S. manufacturer of commercial lighting solutions headquartered in Carthage, Missouri. 

A proud graduate of Missouri Southern State University, Mark remains deeply connected to his alma mater through the Williams Family Business Majors Endowed Scholarship and the Golden Lions program for high school graduates.

Under his leadership, H.E. Williams continues to champion innovation, quality, and American manufacturing. The company actively supports education and workforce development through its involvement with Missouri Southern’s Business and Technology Advisory Committee and as the Gold Level Sponsor for the 2025 Business Gateway competition.

Mark’s leadership reflects a commitment to community, collaboration, and sustainable growth—ensuring H.E. Williams remains a trusted name in the lighting industry while inspiring future business and technology leaders.

The Tupper family’s connection to Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) is a remarkable story of multi-generational dedication, leadership, and service. Rooted in the values instilled by Carol and Jan Tupper, the family’s legacy continues to thrive through the lives and contributions of Jon Tupper, Vicky (Tupper) Mieseler, and Dr. Joel Tupper.

Jon Tupper (Class of 1992) embodies lifelong Lion pride. A former MSSU Football 
Letterman (1977–1980), Jon has remained deeply engaged with the university, serving as a member of the MSSU Football Alumni Association and as a color commentator for MSSU football broadcasts for over a decade. His commitment to MSSU athletics is further reflected in more than 35 years of tailgating tradition, fostering community and school spirit.

Jon’s dedication extends beyond campus. He served six years on the Joplin City Council and two years as Mayor, demonstrating the leadership and civic responsibility nurtured during his time at MSSU. His wife, Diana (Class of 1980), and their children—Joshua (’05), Jessica (’18), and Jarren (’22)—are all MSSU alumni, continuing the family’s proud tradition.

Vicky (Tupper) Mieseler, a 1980s MSSU graduate with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, 
has built a distinguished career in behavioral health. In 2025, she was named CEO of Ozark Center, where she has served since 1984. Vicky is a licensed psychologist and holds a master’s degree from Pittsburg State University. Her leadership spans numerous state and national boards, including the Missouri Behavioral Health Council and the Missouri Autism Commission.

Vicky’s community involvement is extensive. She serves as Vice President and Board Member of the Missouri Southern Foundation, and contributes to the Joplin Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, CASA, and multiple MSSU advisory boards. A past president of the MSSU Alumni Association, Vicky continues to champion the university’s mission. She and her husband, Steve, are proud parents of Lauren Thomason and Emilie Mieseler (’10), further extending the family’s MSSU legacy.

Dr. Joel Tupper (Class of 1983) is a celebrated physician, athlete, and philanthropist.
Graduating summa cum laude, Joel earned First Team NAIA All-American honors, was a two-time NAIA Academic All-American, and received both the E.O. Humphrey Outstanding Senior Award and the Spradling Memorial Award. He is a member of the MSSU Athletic Hall of Fame and serves as Vice President of the MSSU Football Alumni Association.

After MSSU, Joel earned his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma and completed advanced training in orthopedic surgery and pediatric orthopedics. For over 30 years, he has served patients across communities and now practices in Oklahoma City. His philanthropic efforts span local and global initiatives, including medical missions to Uganda and Guatemala, and support for organizations such as St. Jude, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse.

The Tupper family’s enduring commitment to Missouri Southern—through academic excellence, athletic achievement, professional leadership, and community service—exemplifies the university’s values and mission. Their legacy is a powerful testament to the impact of education, family, and civic pride.

Rick and Sue Utter exemplify the Spirit of Service through their unwavering dedication to community, education, and Missouri Southern State University. Rick began his professional journey as a full-time counselor in the Webb City School District, where he also laid the foundation for Heartland Financial Group (now HFI Advisors). Driven by a passion for helping educators, he built the business during evenings and weekends, eventually growing it into a multi-million-dollar enterprise after retiring from the district in 1997.

Together, Rick and Sue have become pillars of service in the region. Their support of MSSU and Webb City athletics is evident through their active involvement with the Lionbackers Steering Committee. Beyond campus, they volunteer with organizations like Jasper County CASA, St. Paul’s Homebound Services, and are deeply engaged in civic, church, and charitable activities.

Their commitment to service is matched by their zest for life. Whether biking, playing pickleball, horseback riding, or walking their dog, Rick and Sue embrace each day with energy and purpose. Their lives are a testament to the values behind the Spirit of Service Award—generosity, humility, and a deep-rooted desire to uplift others.

Rick and Sue Utter inspire those around them through their actions, their leadership, and their heartfelt commitment to making a difference. Their legacy of service continues to enrich the lives of many and reflects the very essence of this honor.

The medical field will see another force on the move when Alyssa Jerome graduates this spring from Missouri Southern with her bachelor’s in biomedical sciences on the pre-med track.

Her interest in MSSU first sparked at an indoor track and field meet held on campus. She ultimately chose the university because of the several opportunities afforded to her.

“I was able to compete as a student athlete, join the Honors Program, and be immersed in a strong science department,” said Jerome, a Mannford, Oklahoma native. “I was not limited to just one path—I had the freedom to explore all of my interests.”

She was a member of various MSSU clubs and organizations such as the Clay Club, Caduceus Club, the Athletic Engagement Team, and Women of Science. Jerome also served as Secretary of the Student Athletic Advisory Council and President of the Green Bandana Project. Jerome also studied abroad in Italy as well as Scotland, and England as a part of the Honors Program. She also competed as a pole vaulter on the Varsity Track & Field team.

“Throughout my time on the team, I’ve had the opportunity to travel and grow both as an athlete and a person. Life at the track was filled with exciting moments, tough lessons, and lifelong friendships that I will always cherish. My team truly became a second family.”

Jerome isn’t known just for her accomplishments on campus but for her giving spirit. While volunteering at the Hillcrest Medical Center in Tulsa, she created The Little Box of Joy Project. 24 patients in the med-surg unit received a package containing a blanket, succulent, tumbler, and coupons. She even established the fundraiser, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” for the initiative, a parents’ night out event for girls in Pre-K through second grade filled with crafts, manicures, and dinner. Additionally, she launched a crowdfunding campaign, reaching out to local businesses, many who contributed donations, gift cards, and products.

“The most meaningful part of this experience was seeing patients smile and engaging in heartfelt conversations during the deliveries. I hope to continue finding meaningful ways to serve others in both my personal life and future career in healthcare.”

Research is close to her heart as well. This March, she presented her work “Healing Through Heritage: Building a Culturally Inclusive Healthcare System” at the Great Plains Honors Conference, and Jerome and her Advanced Human Dissection group are querying their research “Evaluation of TDP-43 Concentration in Visceral Organs Affected By Bulbar Onset Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis” to medical journals.

After graduation, Jerome will begin an internship at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School as part of the Medicine Pathways for Advancing Tribal Healthcare Program. Following this, she will earn her Master of Science in Biomedicine at Arkansas College of Health Education before pursuing medical school.

“The biomedical science department has been everything I could have asked for and more,” she said. “The department is filled with so many professors who want to see their students succeed, and of course, so many great friends who I am so thankful to have met.”