R. Adron Harris has published more than 225 scholarly articles based on his research. He was also the director of the University of Colorado Alcohol Research Center and scientific director of the Denver VA Alcoholism Research Center. Research into the social causes and consequences of alcohol abuse is under way at the UT College of Communication and the School of Social Work. Dr. R. Adron Harris joined the Waggoners at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, along with members of the Natural Sciences Foundation Advisory Council and other college administrators, staff members, and friends. Harris's research lab is housed in the Waggoner Wing.
Alcoholism has a greater impact, but receives the least public funding, of any major health issue.
A real difference can be made by individuals who see these problems and take opportunities to positively change the world in which we live. In a short speech following the ceremony, J. Virgil Waggoner said he believes that for successful professionals, giving back to their communities is not an opportunity, but an obligation. Right here at this University there are students, our children, who are different from others, and for whom drinking is the most dangerous action they can take. He called on all scientific researchers to work tirelessly in their search for genetic markers and additional tools that will aid in the prevention of alcoholism. Alcoholism and dependency research in the UT College of Natural Sciences, the College of Pharmacy, the College of Communication, the College of Liberal Arts, and the School of Social Work will benefit from the bright national spotlight on the Waggoner Center.