Staff Reports
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A statewide project announced this week by Missouri House Speaker Todd Richardson has special local ties because it was originated by two Butler Countians.
The Speaker hosted a group of students, faculty, staff and administrators from the University of Missouri Honors College during the past week's Special Session to introduce the undertaking, which originated with Richardson and Reagan Myers, a sophomore Honors College student from Poplar Bluff.
The ceremony was held in the Capitol's House Chamber, where Speaker Richardson read a House Resolution recognizing the 60th anniversary of the Honors College.
In 1958, the University of Missouri established the nation's first public Honors College. It seeks to recruit, challenge and serve a diverse group of high-achieving students and provide them research and artistry opportunities.
The resolution was presented to Honors College Director Dr. J.D. Bowers and Chancellor Dr. Alexander Cartwright.
During his comments, the speaker detailed a service project being conducted in conjunction with the Honors College Diamond Jubilee Celebration. Richardson said the project is being called Missouri Day 2018 and he is co-chairing the project with Myers.
In outlining the program, Myers said, "Between now and Missouri Day on Oct. 18, we are asking people to do three things. First, buy appropriate food products grown or manufactured in Missouri. Next, share with your local food pantry. Finally, post a picture of your donation on social media using @MissouriDay2018 and the hashtags #MissouriMade, #MissouriShared and #MIZHonors60."
Richardson said, "This a great way to celebrate this special anniversary. Recognizing the productivity and resources of Missouri-grown and made products is symbolic of what the Honors College does with these outstanding students. It is also reflective of the spirit of Missourians to share with our neighbors in need."
The speaker introduced Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, who also praised the service project and pledged to promote it through his office's Buy Missouri initiative. He said that the #MissouriMade strategy will dovetail closely with the Buy Missouri efforts of his office.
Myers said that Missouri Day 2018 can be found on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.