Gary Ward, MU’s vice chancellor for operations and chief operating officer, is retiring at the end of this month after 16 years at Mizzou — capping a 35-year career in higher education.

Gary has ensured our beautiful campus is always ready to serve the needs of our community. His forward-looking vision has also prepared us to do even more for future generations of both Tigers and Missourians.

Under his leadership, Gary oversaw:

• 21 departments, 1,900 employees and a $300 million annual budget

• Nearly $3 billion in large construction projects since 2006 (including the Roy Blunt NextGen Precision Health building)

• Our efforts to increase the use of green energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 62% since 2008

Though retiring, Gary is putting his expertise to great use as the executive director of operations for Love Columbia, an organization that connects community relationships and resources to people in need.

A tribute bench on the south side of Jesse Hall will be commemorated, acknowledging Gary’s service to the university. I also want to thank Gary personally for his dedication and for being a great steward of Mizzou.

— Mun