Soirée Evening Yields Record Contributions
August 14, 2026 | General
SPRINGFIELD -- Continued community support for Missouri State University helped raise over $350,000 to benefit Intercollegiate Athletics during its annual auction event, held on Aug. 1.
Presented by OMB, the "Sneaker Soiree" is Mo State's signature fundraiser and helps raise crucial funds to enhance all 19 intercollegiate programs while ensuring every student-athlete has the resources necessary to succeed both on and off the field. The captivating fan experience attracted more than 700 Bears faithful and included hundreds of items showcasing tastes from local restaurants, exclusive experiences, vacation packages, sports memorabilia, and more.
"The support of the Springfield community is vital to our long-term success and was very evident at this year's Soiree," said Director of Athletics Patrick Ransdell. "It was a night to remember for a lot of reasons, but certainly we are very pleased with the turnout, the financial support and the many new friends who are now a part of Bear Nation."
Held at Great Southern Bank Arena on the Springfield campus, the 40th annual event also included a tribute to the event's founding father, Bill Rowe, for his lifetime of commitment to Bears Athletics.
A date for the 2027 Sneaker Soiree event will be announced in the coming months with Great Southern Bank Arena looking to host another milestone evening next year.
Bears fans can continue support Missouri State Athletics throughout the year by giving to the Competitive Excellence Fund online.
Presented by OMB, the "Sneaker Soiree" is Mo State's signature fundraiser and helps raise crucial funds to enhance all 19 intercollegiate programs while ensuring every student-athlete has the resources necessary to succeed both on and off the field. The captivating fan experience attracted more than 700 Bears faithful and included hundreds of items showcasing tastes from local restaurants, exclusive experiences, vacation packages, sports memorabilia, and more.
"The support of the Springfield community is vital to our long-term success and was very evident at this year's Soiree," said Director of Athletics Patrick Ransdell. "It was a night to remember for a lot of reasons, but certainly we are very pleased with the turnout, the financial support and the many new friends who are now a part of Bear Nation."
Held at Great Southern Bank Arena on the Springfield campus, the 40th annual event also included a tribute to the event's founding father, Bill Rowe, for his lifetime of commitment to Bears Athletics.
A date for the 2027 Sneaker Soiree event will be announced in the coming months with Great Southern Bank Arena looking to host another milestone evening next year.
Bears fans can continue support Missouri State Athletics throughout the year by giving to the Competitive Excellence Fund online.
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