In 2022, the Joplin Schools Foundation formed the Alumni Hall of Fame to celebrate and honor Joplin graduates who have made an outstanding impact in their career and community. With nearly 150 years of graduates to choose from - between Joplin high School, Parkwood High School, Lincoln School, and Memorial High School - there is no end to the impressive alumni to be celebrated.

The 2025 induction ceremony was held on Thursday, Oct. 16. We were honored to celebrate the induction of five incredible alumni into the Hall of Fame, with three able to attend and speak in person. Hearing about the paths these individuals have taken toward nurturing creativity, beauty, progress, connections, and success in their own lives and the lives of their communities was an inspiration. We are proud of their time in Joplin Schools and the ways they used their hometown education and support systems as a springboard for lives of great impact.

The 2025 Class of inductees includes:

• The late Samuel Austin Allen, 1898 graduate of Joplin High School, architecture
• Debi Vowels-Durham, 1978 graduate of Parkwood High School, economic development
• Vance Powell, 1982 graduate of Parkwood High School, music
• Dan Stanley, 1963 graduate of Joplin High School, business

A meritorious award was also given to:

• The late Jack Holden, 1939 graduate of Joplin High School. His nephew was present to accept the award on his family's behalf.

In-depth stories about these impressive Joplin alumni can be found on our Alumni Hall of Fame website. 

Many thanks to the Joplin Schools Foundation, JHS Strolling Strings, JHS JROTC, JHS Philanthropic Society, and many community partners and donors for making the evening possible. Sponsorships and donations to the Alumni Hall of Fame support scholarship opportunities for current graduating seniors at Joplin High School, helping them start their own outstanding careers and lives.

Nominations for outstanding alumni are accepted year-round and can be submitted here.