The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) is proud to announce Eric Cartwright as the recipient of the 2025 Mal Mayse Distinguished Service Award. Cartwright was recognized during the 2025 MSHSAA Scholar Bowl at the University of Missouri.
Eric Cartwright's connection to Missouri and to academic excellence runs deep. A longtime Columbia resident, Eric moved to the city at the age of 10 with his family and has called it home ever since. He graduated from Rock Bridge High School in 1996, where he distinguished himself as a standout student and was selected for the State Academic Bowl Team. His passion for quiz bowl continued through college, where he competed while pursuing a degree in English at the University of Missouri, graduating in 2000.
Eric has dedicated over two decades of his professional career to MBS Textbook Exchange, where he currently works in the acquisitions department. His journey with the company, which began in 2000, has included numerous roles that showcase his versatility and commitment to education and learning.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Eric has a diverse range of personal pursuits. He is a musician who records under the name Zircona, a certified open water diver, and a three-time half-marathon finisher. He married Leia Brooks in December 2021 and continues to make his mark in both professional and personal spheres with energy and enthusiasm.
Since 2003, Eric has been an invaluable part of the MSHSAA Scholar Bowl community. His unwavering commitment and deep passion for academic competition have made a lasting impact on students, coaches and the Scholar Bowl program across the state.