On
Sept. 20, 2002, Dr. Billy C. Hawkins (E’76) was formally
inaugurated as the 20th President of Texas College in Tyler, Texas.
Founded
in 1894 and governed by the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church,
Texas College is a liberal arts institution whose mission historically
has been to provide “educational opportunities, academic
services, and career choices for thousands of African American
youth from throughout Texas, the nation, and internationally.”
As an undergraduate,
Hawkins was a four-year letter-winner as quarterback of the Bulldogs.
After graduating from Ferris State, Hawkins held a number of administration
positions with the University and other institutions including
being provost and vice president of Academic Affairs at Mississippi
Valley State University.
The Tyler
Morning Telegraph quoted Hawkins outlining an educational
philosophy that could apply equally to his alma mater— “As
society becomes more complex, we must be ready to answer with
the right degree programs and training that will keep our students
competitive.”
There is
no small amount of irony in Hawkins’ successful career in
higher education. As a child he was mislabeled as being a slow
learner and placed in special education classes from the third
through the 10th grades. Today he is recognized for his expertise
and insights into the education of young people.
Among the
well-wishers and dignitaries from across the country in attendance
at Hawkins’ inauguration was U.S. Rep. Ralph Hall and baseball
legend Henry “Hank” Aaron.
