TITLE: In memory of Baker Pattillo.

SUMMARY: In memory of Baker Pattillo.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The passing of Dr. Baker Pattillo of Nacogdoches on December 29, 2018, at the age of 75, brought great sorrow to his family and friends, as well as to the campus community of Stephen F. Austin State University, which he served with great distinction for more than five decades; and WHEREAS, Born in Camden on June 22, 1943, Baker Pattillo was the son of the Reverend Leroy Pattillo and Mauree Pattillo; he moved with his family to Arp in 1956 and lettered as a member of the Tigers football team at Arp High School, where his classmates voted him "most likely to succeed"; he subsequently put himself through college; after studying first at Tyler Junior College, he earned his bachelor's degree in 1965 and his master's degree in guidance and counseling in 1966 from Stephen F. Austin State University; he later completed a doctoral degree in educational administration at Texas A&M University; and WHEREAS, Dr. Pattillo was hired as assistant director of placement and financial aid at Stephen F. Austin State University in 1966; he was promoted to dean of student services in 1972 and to vice president for student affairs in 1979; after being appointed interim president in July 2006, he assumed the office of president in January 2007; and WHEREAS, Over the course of his 11-year tenure as president, Dr. Pattillo coordinated campus projects that totaled more than $425 million, including a student recreation center, a nursing building, and three residential buildings; moreover, he took well-deserved pride in securing $150 million in funding for four additional facilities during his last day of work; under his leadership, the university exceeded 13,000 in enrollment, surpassing its previous record, and Dr. Pattillo enjoyed a strong rapport with students, as well as with faculty, staff, regents, and state and national leaders; and WHEREAS, Dr. Pattillo shared 52 years of marriage with his wife, Janice Pattillo, whom he wed on December 17, 1966, and they were blessed with a daughter, Paige, a grandson, Jackson, and a son-in-law, Todd; and WHEREAS, Through his vision and leadership, Dr. Baker Pattillo contributed immeasurably to advancing the mission of Stephen F. Austin State University, and he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to resonate for years to come; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the life of Dr. Baker Pattillo and extend deepest condolences to his relatives and many friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Dr. Baker Pattillo. Nichols President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 20, 2019, by a rising vote.