2021 Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame
The five inductees were selected as citizens with a connection to the state of Missouri who serve as examples of global citizens. These individuals define the essence of public affairs, and have acted consistently for the benefit of others.
Christopher S. “Kit” Bond
Over the course of 40 years of distinguished public service, Christopher S. “Kit” Bond earned a reputation as a skilled statesman able to build coalitions and effectively work across party lines to achieve results. He served four terms in the United States Senate, two terms as Missouri’s governor and one term as Missouri state auditor.
Dr. Patricia Dix
An obstetrician-gynecologist at CoxHealth, Dr. Patricia Dix has advanced the field of maternal-fetal medicine for more than three decades. She has dedicated her life to caring for mothers with high-risk pregnancies. Her commitment to helping women in need in the community is evident in her volunteer work, where she provides gynecological care for uninsured patients.
Wendy Doyle
Wendy Doyle is a fearless advocate for women’s rights. She currently serves as chief executive officer of the United WE. She currently serves as the chief executive officer of the United WE. Here, she focuses on addressing economic issues women face, as well as improving and promoting self-sufficiency. Through her role, she fights for policy change. Primarily, she invests her energy into gaining paid family leave and pay equity for women.
Bob Holden
Bob Holden served as Missouri’s 53rd governor from 2001-2005. Prior to his election, he served two terms as the Missouri state treasurer and three terms as a Missouri state representative. Currently the chairman and CEO of the United States Heartland China Association, Holden led efforts to bring the first delegations of Chinese students to participate in the American Legion Missouri Boys and Girls State Program.
Dred Scott
Born a slave, Dred Scott was a civil rights pioneer. He made history by suing for his and his family’s freedom. After years of appeals and court reversals, the case, known as Dred Scott vs. John F. Sandford, made it to the U.S. Supreme Court. The court issued its decision on March 6, 1857, which said the Scotts were not citizens, neither were any slaves; therefore, they had no rights to be respected. This case served as a major catalyst for the American Civil War. Scott’s legacy lives on in the fight for equality and justice through the Dred Scott Heritage Foundation.