Honoring A Legacy

Meeting at The Keith D. McFarland Science Building

The Keith D. McFarland Science Building was officially named on March 22, 2013. Before a packed lobby and gallery, the alumni, faculty, staff, and students of A&M-Commerce honored President Emeritus McFarland whose tenure in the university's highest office marked an era of facilities expansion, academic program growth, and technological enhancement heretofore unparalleled.

Both Texas State Senator Bob Deuell and Representative Dan Flynn spoke at the naming ceremony, along with President Dan. R. Jones and Derryle Peace, Director of Alumni Relations. While Congressman Ralph Hall could not attend, he sent his best wishes and a flag that flew over the capitol building as a token of his appreciation for President Emeritus McFarland.

President Jones said of McFarland, “With the possible exception of our founder, Professor Mayo, I know of no president of this university or any other who has dedicated more fully or given more freely of his life and professional career than the man we honor today, Dr. Keith D. McFarland.”

McFarland accepted his accolades with humility and humor, giving thanks to his family, especially his wife, Nancy. He thanked all of those who worked behind the scenes with him to accomplish goals during his presidency, noting, “Not only do we have those first class facilities we're looking for, we have a first class education.”