Each year Missouri State University-West Plains is pleased to present the following:
- The Granvil Vaughan Founder's Award, named in honor of the campus' founder, the late Missouri State Representative Granvil Vaughan, is presented annually at spring commencement to recognize individuals who have made a significant impact upon the mission of the West Plains campus.
- Presented for the first time in 2011, honorary degrees are bestowed by the university to recognize extraordinary individuals who have given a substantial part of their lives to serving others and/or who have distinguished themselves.
- The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to former students of the West Plains campus in recognition of extraordinary achievement in personal and professional endeavors.
- The Distinguished Faculty/Staff Award recognizes extraordinary service among former employees of the West Plains campus.