Kirk Memorial, which was dedicated in 1940 during the administration of University President Walter R. Ryle, was built in honor or John R. Kirk, who served as president of the University from 1899 to 1925. This beautiful building, constructed of red brick, stone and marble, was constructed from materials from Missouri, except for the brown marble baseboard in the rotunda, which came from Arkansas. Among its many unique features are the Greek portico with large Grecian columns and stained gass panels bearing the insignia of various fraternities and sororities. When the name of the University was officially changed from Northeast Missouri State University to Truman State University, the weathervane atop the dome was welded in place so it always points to the northeast in honor of the University's former name.