In 1995, then outgoing President Kala Stoup asked Ronald V. Clayton to design a fountain which would anchor a new plaza at the center of Southeat Missouri State University campus between Kent Library and Academic Hall.  In particular, Kala asked for falling, rather than rising water.  She felt a waterfall might provide a tranquil respite for students and faculty as well as create a visually dramatic focus for the center of the campus.  The fountain was completed  in 1999 and dedicated in 2000.