The Bryon Keene society is a way for the Missouri Lions Eye Research Foundation to recognize non-lion individuals and organizations for significant donations accumulating to $10,000. Members of this society are presented a plaque, as well as receive special invitations to Foundation events.

This Society was created in honor of Byron Keene because not only was he an exemplary member of the Columbia Host Lions Club, his commitment to service was demonstrated by the investment of his personal assets in Lion projects.

He and his wife Gayle donated the six acres of land on which the Missouri Lions Eye Research Foundation rests. He served on the Foundation’s Board of Directors, gave an additional $25,000 as a bequest upon his death and helped secure several bequests from others. Lion Keene is a role model who should be honored by all Missouri Lions.