Keith Boaz, a longtime employee of Missouri State University who oversaw four of the institution's marquee facilities, was mourned Aug. 7 by colleagues.
Shortly after noon Aug. 7, Missouri State Athletics posted on social media that Boaz, executive director of athletic and entertainment facilities, had died.
"Keith was a beloved member of our campus community who will be deeply missed by all who knew him," the statement read.
"Throughout his tenure with us, Keith was not only dedicated to his professional responsibilities but was also deeply involved in campus life and our broader community. His commitment extended far beyond his official duties and his positive impact was felt across our institution."
No details about Boaz's death or the funeral service have been announced.
Top university leaders and members of the MSU Board of Governors were mourning Boaz as they gathered Aug. 7 in Branson for the initial day of a two-day board retreat.
Patrick Ransdell, director of athletics, opted to remain in Springfield for longer, pushing back his Aug. 7 presentation to the MSU Board of Governors by a couple of hours.
Ransdell started his presentation with the acknowledgement that it had been a "tough day" — as word of Boaz's death spread quickly among his colleagues and friends — and that he and others were thinking of Boaz's family.
Later, Ransdell posted on X, formerly Twitter: "Prayers to the friends and family of Keith Boaz. He grew up around MSU and became our foremost authority for all our entertainment venues. The events he planned and the shows he brought to SGF brought joy and lifetime memories to many. He was a true (Bear emoji) and will be deeply missed."
More: Facilities master plan, athletics overview part of Missouri State board retreat this week
Boaz, who first joined the university staff in 2003, oversaw top public facilities including the Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, Hammons Student Center, Plaster Stadium and Great Southern Bank Arena.
According to a biography of Boaz on the Missouri State website, he was a 2002 graduate of the university and worked as assistant director of operations at Jordan Valley Ice Park, as it was then known, before getting a job at Missouri State.
Mike Nietzel, former president of Missouri State, wrote on X: "A heartbreaking loss. Keith Boaz was a wonderful leader for MSU and an even better human being."
In a note to staff, MSU President Richard "Biff" Williams wrote: "During this difficult time, our thoughts are with Keith's family, friends and colleagues. Please join me in remembering Keith's contributions and the lasting mark he has left on our community."
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri State mourns Keith Boaz, who oversaw marquee campus venues
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