By Mary Lou Hazel
Commerce – Texas A&M University-Commerce President Keith McFarland has received a commendation from Texas Governor Rick Perry.
"Over the years, your history of service and education demonstrates your commitment to your fellow Texans. Your dedication and distinction highlight the best of the Lone Star State," the May
12 Commendation from Perry reads.
McFarland, who will retire in July after 39 years of service to the university, including 10 years as president, said he is "really pleased to be honored by the Governor for my work in education."
"I am in this business to help provide education for our students," he said. "It is an honor to be recognized."
McFarland received the honor at the School Board Spring Workshop held on campus on May 13 and sponsored by the East Texas School Study Council and the Department of Educational Leadership.
Making the presentation was Dr. Michael Copeland, executive director of the East Texas School Study Council.
About 140 school board trustees from Region 8 and Region 10 Education Service Center areas in North and Northeast Texas attended the workshop.
McFarland came to A&M-Commerce as an assistant professor of history in 1969. He went on to serve as assistant dean of the College of Liberal and Fine Arts and history department head, and dean for Graduate Studies and Research.
After serving as interim president from January through August 1998, he was appointed president, effective Sept. 1, 1998.
He became a full professor in 1976 and has published books and numerous articles dealing with twentieth century military history.
After taking a year to move into a new home in Commerce, McFarland plans to return to teach in the history department.
He received a B.S. from Kent State University and M.A. and Ph.D. from The Ohio State University.