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After 28 ½ years, Mary Jo Banken, executive director of the MU News Bureau, will retire from the University of Missouri on Dec. 31. During her time here, she has been responsible for representing the university to the local, state and national news media and has overseen a staff who have successfully placed more than 150,000 positive stories about MU in the national media with a reach that far surpasses the current global population. To honor her dedication, perseverance and love of MU, please consider making a gift that will benefit the Mizzou Botanic Garden. If we reach our goal of $2,500, a tree will be planted in her honor near Jesse Hall, where she worked for nearly her entire career.