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University of Central Missouri Athletics

Hall of Fame

James * Kirkpatrick

  • Class
  • Induction
    1999
  • Sport(s)
    Special Recognition
James Kirkpatrick
Special Recognition
Kirkpatrick's service to Central Missouri State and the state of Missouri is well-documented. He served on the university's Board of Regents for 12 years, 10 of those as board president. During his tenure, he was instrumental in getting several improvements completed at Vernon Kennedy Field, including the first press box. As Missouri Secretary of State for 20 years, he was considered by many to be the most popular elected official in the history of the state.

Following his retirement from state office, he was named a Distinguished University Fellow at Central Missouri State and maintained an office at Ward Edwards Library. He received the school's Distinguished Alumni Award as well as an honorary doctorate of humane letters. He was a key figure in obtaining state funding for the university's new state-of-the art library, which has been named in his honor. A loyal supporter of Central Missouri athletics, he was an original member of the Hall of Fame selection committee and served as committee chairman until his death in 1997.



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