June 12, 2023
A pair of prominent Tigers recently received high honors for their work in support of the Heart of Missouri United Way, an organization that supports more than 30 community programs — including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri and the Boys and Girls Club of the Columbia Area.
University of Missouri men’s basketball coach Dennis Gates was awarded the Charlyn Y. Law Memorial Award for compassion, commitment and resolve. This award is presented to an individual or group in the community who promotes activities and special events that enhance and improve overall quality of life.
Gates selected Read Across Columbia as the beneficiary of the Fight for Literacy effort with Mizzou men’s basketball and raised more than $20,000. He was also the keynote speaker at the United Way’s Pacesetter Breakfast.
Jim Spain — MU vice provost for undergraduate studies who has been volunteering with the United Way since 2002 — received the Heart of Missouri United Way’s Campaign Chair Achievement Award. As the 2022 MU United Way Campaign chair, Spain oversaw efforts that significantly increased the donor base and raised $437,000 — a 6% increase over the previous year.
