STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University celebrated nine Legacy and Distinguished Alumni Saturday night at the 2025 Gala, An Evening in Purple, inside Wisdom Gym.
Legacy Awards recognize individuals and supporters who exhibit the university’s core values of excellence, integrity and respect. Honorees are selected by Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley.
Distinguished Alumni recipients bring distinction to Tarleton State through their career, community service or leadership. Honorees are nominated by their peers and selected by the Tarleton Alumni Association Board of Directors.
This year’s Legacy Award recipients:
Chancellor John Sharp
John Sharp was appointed Chancellor of The Texas A&M University System by the Board of Regents in 2011.
As chancellor, Sharp leads one of the largest systems in the country with an annual budget of $7.8 billion and an enrollment of more than 153,000 students at 11 System universities.
Additionally, under the System umbrella, there are eight state agencies. Sharp earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Texas A&M University in 1972, where he was a member of the Corps staff of the Corps of Cadets, a member of the 1972 rugby team, and he was elected student body president. Upon graduation, Sharp was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army Reserve.
In 2018, Sharp was recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus, an honor given to Aggies who have achieved excellence in their professions and made meaningful contributions to Texas A&M and the communities. It is the college’s highest honor awarded to former students.
In 1976, Sharp received a master’s degree in public administration from Southwest Texas State University while working full-time with the Legislative Budget Board in Austin. In 1978, he opened a one-man real estate firm in Victoria.
Chancellor Sharp brings with him more than three decades of public service. He was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1978, and in 1982, he won a seat in the Texas Senate. Four years later, he was elected to the Texas Railroad Commission, and he was elected state comptroller in 1990 and re-elected in 1994.
Sharp is married to Diana (Atchison) Sharp. They exchanged vows on May 5, 2023. Between them, they have five adult children and six grandchildren.
Maj. Gen. Chad Parker
Maj. Gen. Chad Parker has never been idle. From milking cows at 3 a.m. at the Tarleton State dairy and spending what spare time was left in the ROTC to serving 38 years in the military, he’s given his all to everything he does.
Even now, freshly retired, he stays busy, whether it’s working with animal rescues or renovating his condo.
“Idle hands make the devil’s work, right? I’m not idle,” said Parker. He attributes his work ethic to the life foundation he laid at Tarleton State, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1989. The farm kid from Brownwood found his community in the Tarleton ROTC and learned valuable life lessons while taking heavy course loads to graduate in three years.
“I was reflecting on just how hard that was, but how grateful I am now for what that taught me about hard work, discipline and sticking to a goal. Tarleton provided all that for me at a very young age.”
Parker subsequently earned a Master of Science in computer information systems at the University of Phoenix and a Master of Strategic Studies at the U.S. Army War College. His military assignments took him to many places, including South Korea and a lengthy tour in Afghanistan, for which he won the Bronze Star.
Tarleton State’s only other major general behind Maj. Gen. James Earl Rudder, Parker has amassed a long list of military accolades. He’s also proud of becoming a space qualified officer — a military professional who plans, organizes and directs space operations — and earning the Senior Army Space Badge. Another highlight was his promotion to one-star general officer almost 30 years to the day after he enlisted in the Texas Army National Guard in Stephenville — a true full circle moment.
In December 2024, he returned to Tarleton State to commission his nephew, Lt. Cameron Smith, and to speak to the cadets at their commissioning ceremony.
Of all the people he’s served and worked with over the years, Parker says he’s most inspired by his wife, Maj. Gen. Laurie Hummel, one of the first female graduates of West Point, who he met in a bunker in South Korea.
“Our lives have been very shaped and informed by the dedication and commitment to service. She is a strong inspiration for me. Someone to have those hard discussions with and help me make those right life choices.”
Neil Noakes
When Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes was pondering his career path, the wise advice of his great-grandfather to try to help at least one person every day sparked his interest in law enforcement.
“I knew I wanted to do something to give back,” said Noakes. “Something where I could serve other people and really make a difference. In policing, I can help many people every single day.”
He started with the Fort Worth Police Department in 2000 as a patrol officer before eventually holding roles in areas including DWI, motors and internal affairs. After working his way up to sergeant, he returned to college in 2014 in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Tarleton State, which he would earn in 2016.
“To be able to take my practical experience and get that academic knowledge, that did more for me than I thought it would,” said Noakes. “I’m so glad I chose Tarleton, and I am so glad that I decided to go back and finish my degree.”
A non-traditional student, he initially earned an associate degree from Weatherford College before taking an extended period away from school. While he could have gone anywhere for an online program, he credited Tarleton State’s local connections, values and mission as key factors in his decision to pursue his degree there.
With his degree in hand, Noakes was named Fort Worth’s police chief in 2021. His time in the role has been defined by community engagement and innovative leadership. In the community, he is involved with youth engagement programs such as Operation Progress, Read2Win, All Pro Dad and the City of Fort Worth’s Education Initiative.
A native of Millsap, Noakes will retire from law enforcement in May after 25 years of service. From his experiences, one thing stands above all.
“I’m most proud of the relationships,” he said. “Some might think the ranks or the titles or the positions — it’s not about that — it’s about the relationships that you develop along the way.”
Noakes earned a master’s degree in criminology from TCU in 2019. He is also a graduate of the Southern Police Institute’s 137th Administrative Officers Course and TCU’s inaugural Leadership, Executive and Administrative Development program.
He married his wife, Kim, in 2008, and the two are the proud parents of Blaine, Landon, Morgan and Ashley.
Susan Reyna Poynor
Like the hoofbeats of the Texan Rider on the field, Susan Reyna Poynor’s heart beats for Tarleton State. Her spirit and pride for the university have been unyielding, demonstrated through years of service, leadership and devotion from her time as a student until now.
She started as a freshman in the fall of 1987 and, as a first-generation student, made the most of every opportunity. Her grandparents, Charlie and Faye Martin, were constant cheerleaders.
“I cannot remember a time that they were not supportive of what I was trying to accomplish,” said Reyna Poynor. “They were very open-minded and wanted me to have these opportunities, working so hard to help me succeed.”
As a student, she was a Delta Zeta sorority member, was named the top president of the province and was Tarleton State’s first Greek Woman of the Year. Additionally, she was involved in the Student Government Association, crowned Miss TSU, recognized as the top honor graduate of her college and received the John Tarleton Spirit Award.
“For me, the people at Tarleton State always make it feel like home. I’ve always been a little eclectic, which is why I landed in all these different groups,” she said. “But whatever group I’m with, there is a deep connection, and we seem like family.”
After graduating in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in human sciences, Reyna Poynor received her master’s degree in educational leadership from what is now known as East Texas A&M University. She worked in the public school system for 13 years before becoming a full-time mom to her two children, Seth and Kayley, after which she developed a real estate investment company in 2014.
Now, semiretired, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Max, and giving back to her community and Tarleton State. She is devoted to serving at-risk youth in her school district, volunteering at her church, and mentoring new Delta Zeta members. She serves on the Tarleton Alumni Association (TAA) and Tarleton Rodeo Alumni Board executive teams while also contributing to the Texan Club and the Fort Worth Women’s Club.
As Reyna Poynor finishes her final term on the TAA board, she cannot help but feel like accepting this award is a sweet conclusion to her service.
“I’ve attended the Gala before, and I have seen the caliber of people who receive these awards. I am honored and humbled to be recognized in the same setting,” she said.
Tarleton Alumni Association Awards:
Distinguished Alumnus — Dr. Carl Gabbard
Dr. Carl Gabbard’s legacy at Tarleton State University isn’t confined to textbooks or titles; it is woven into the lives he’s touched and the foundation he has built for others to learn and grow.
His time at Tarleton State, which started in 1969, laid the groundwork for a lifetime dedicated to health, education and mentorship, shaping not only his own remarkable career but also the paths of countless others.
“When I was at Tarleton State, the importance of physical activity and health was on the brink of really taking off nationally, and I had a very strong interest in it,” said Dr. Gabbard. “Dr. John Dunn, a mentor of mine at Tarleton State, encouraged me to pursue graduate work.”
While working toward his degrees at Tarleton State, he founded the university’s first powerlifting team, which won the national championship in 1972. After receiving his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physical education, he went on to receive his doctorate from the University of North Texas.
Over a distinguished 45-year career in education at both the primary and university levels, Dr. Gabbard has published over 300 research and application articles, presented his work internationally, and received numerous honors, including the Margie R. Hanson Distinguished Service Award. He also served as president of the National Association for Sport and Physical Education.
In appreciation for the strong educational foundation that Tarleton State offered, Dr. Gabbard established the Carl and Shiryn Gabbard Scholarship Endowment to be awarded to a graduate student in the School of Kinesiology studying exercise science.
Beyond his professional achievements, he has left an enduring legacy through his commitment to teaching and mentorship. His first doctoral student when he was a faculty member at Texas A&M University, Dr. Joe Gillespie, went on to become a teacher, coach, athletic director, department chair and Dean of the College of Education at Tarleton State.
Dr. Gabbard and his late wife, Shiryn, have two daughters, Ashley Jolly and Tamara Wingfield, and seven grandchildren. Now retired, he enjoys spending time with his family and pursuing his passion for rock climbing.
“Receiving this award brings back so many memories of what Tarleton State has done for me on this journey,” said Dr. Gabbard. “If it wasn’t for John Dunn and others who encouraged me to do graduate work at Tarleton, I don’t know what my life would have looked like.”
Distinguished Alumnus — Scott Summy
Some call Tarleton State alumnus Scott Summy “The Water Lawyer.” The words are even stamped on the floor in his house. His legal victories on behalf of people whose drinking water was chemically contaminated earned him the moniker.
Summy’s drive and commitment to hard work began when he observed his first court trial in high school. He realized then that he wanted to be a trial lawyer and never even considered another profession.
As the first person in his family to attend college, he didn’t know where to start. A friend’s father recommended Tarleton State, and with the help of a Dick Smith scholarship, he graduated cum laude in 1986 and went on to obtain his law degree from Texas Tech.
Just a few years out of law school, Summy took on a case in which water wells had been tainted by the gasoline additive methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) from a nearby filling station.
“I ended up trying that case and got a very large verdict,” he said. As word of his win spread, he found himself in demand for similar cases, which led him to join the Dallas firm Baron & Budd. Summy now co-owns the firm and leads the Environmental Litigation Group (ELG) he started in 2002.
The Law360 legal news service has named ELG “Practice Group of the Year” in the Environmental Law category three of the past four years.
He credits Tarleton State with equipping him for the rigors of the law field. Learning time management and strategic thinking were key. Smaller classes and interaction with legendary professors like Dr. O.A. Grant and Dr. Harold Walton encouraged and guided him. He also found time to participate in pre-law and honors societies and to play intramural sports.
Summy is most proud of his recent massive settlements to help filter per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals,” from public water systems.
“That’s going to provide safe drinking water to about 150 million Americans,” he said.
Summy serves on the Texas Tech Law School Board of Trustees and last year was inducted into the school’s hall of fame. He’s also on the board of his firm and several companies formed with his children. He and wife Lenna, who he met on a blind date, have three children and a new grandbaby.
Distinguished Friend — Michael Beach
As the owner and operator of Peacock’s Restaurant, Michael Beach is continuing a legacy of history, tradition and partnership that evokes many fond memories for anyone who has called Tarleton State home.
The sweet smell of pancakes cooking and bacon sizzling on the grill at the Stephenville staple continues to bring a warm and inviting sense of family to the Tarleton State community.
His journey to becoming a Tarleton State Texan started when his renowned father, Dr. Don Beach, began serving as the Dean of the College of Education and Fine Arts in 1981. Michael recalls growing up on campus, attending Tarleton State events with his family and learning to swim at the campus pool.
Though he decided to wander from his roots for a bit, starting his higher education journey at Texas Tech University, fate eventually brought him back to Tarleton State, where he finished his degree in manufacturing engineering in 2002.
Michael and his wife, Stephanie, purchased Peacock’s from her parents in 2022. Since then, they have worked to try and expand their partnership with the university and, like Dr. Beach used to say, “Do the most good.”
“The campus is the reason my family moved here,” said Michael. “I think it’s another economic input that contributes to the success of the town. And I think if you want something to grow and be better, you have to be willing to invest into it.”
Involved in the Texan Club, the Tarleton Alumni Association, the Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council and Keep Stephenville Beautiful, the Beach’s are always looking for new ways to “lead from the front” in their partnership with the university and the community. Stephanie, an accomplished artist, was recently selected as Tarleton State’s Artist in Residence.
“I hope that my connection with the university evolves in a way that I can help to start inspiring the next man up,” said Michael. “I’ve always tried to encourage people through my actions to step up and be that next leader, and hopefully through what I’m doing, I’m inspiring others to do the same thing.”
Michael and Stephanie have two kids, Grant and Reagan. When they are not working in the restaurant or volunteering in the community, they spend their time together as a family, including going to their children’s different athletic activities.
Distinguished Young Alumna — Jamie Hayden
Raised on rodeo and real estate, Jamie Hayden learned resilience and self-reliance early on. Growing up in a real estate family who modeled those traits, she knew she wanted to follow her parents’ footsteps, and she began working in real estate while still in high school. She also loved riding, and she couldn’t get rodeo off her mind.
After a year of working and going to college in Wyoming, Hayden hitched up her trailer and headed to Tarleton State, drawn by Stephenville’s national reputation as a rodeo capital.
“I really wanted to go somewhere different, out of the cold weather, and go knock heads with the best and see what I could do. That was an amazing time and such a good experience — really one of the best times of my life,” she said of her tenure rodeoing for Tarleton State under legendary coach Bob Doty. “I fell in love with Stephenville and Texas.”
Her time at Tarleton State provided her with friendships, professional relationships and life lessons that have remained with her throughout her real estate career.
“I honed my time management and problem-solving skills,” she said. “I arrived here 1,200 miles from home with six horses, a pickup and trailer, and I had to learn to figure some things out because there was no one here to rescue me. Those are great life skills, particularly if you plan to run your own business.”
Hayden graduated from Tarleton State in 2008 with a business degree and began selling real estate. She married husband Eric and the two opened Hayden Real Estate, a brokerage and property management company, in 2010.
The company quickly became a leader in Erath County, and in 2022 the couple sold it to legendary DFW brokerage Ebby Halliday. They remain agents there and enjoy continuing to help clients, many of whom are part of the Tarleton State community.
“Having had the opportunity to help many of them and their families with their homes and investments has meant the world to me,” said Jamie. “The people at Tarleton poured into me and have continued to do so for the past 15 years.”
Jamie and Eric are fervent supporters of local rodeo and athletics as well as several community service groups. They also make time to coach their children Graham, 9, and Halle, 5, on various sports teams.
Heartbeat Award — Wanda Dugger
Some of Tarleton State University’s most visible supporters never attended classes here, yet they share a deep connection and proudly bleed purple. A notable example is Wanda Dugger. Tarleton State isn’t just her daughter’s college, it’s a place that has left a lasting impact on her entire family.
Proud residents of Valley View, Texas, Wanda and her husband, Michael, are the parents of Carson Dugger, a current student in the Class of 2025 who is majoring in wildlife, sustainability, and ecosystem sciences while also a member of the Bass Club.
As a proud parent, Wanda has fully embraced the Tarleton State experience, immersing herself in traditions, forming lasting friendships and giving back in every way possible.
“Tarleton welcomed us as parents and friends with open arms, just as if we went to school there,” she said.
That sense of belonging has fueled her passion for connecting with others who have experienced the transition of sending a child off to college. Through the Tarleton Parents Association, she has truly found an extended family.
Wanda’s Tarleton State pride shines in her support for the Bass Club. From fundraising efforts to cheering at tournaments, she is one of the team’s biggest advocates.
“I take immense pride in being the mother of the sole female angler on the Tarleton Bass Club,” Dugger said. “I proudly display a vehicle decal and support them at every opportunity, whether it’s helping other parents organize fundraisers or cheering at tournaments.”
Balancing family life with a full-time job, Wanda also manages two entrepreneurial creative ventures, Dirt Road Graphics and Happy Cakes Bakery.
A dedicated volunteer, Wanda is active at Texan Alley Tailgates, new student orientations and countless other university events. Known for her warm hospitality, she has become a tailgating staple, welcoming students and parents alike with food, laughter and even a community water bowl for visiting dogs. Whether she’s painting custom Tarleton State cornhole boards or stuffing Duck Bags to the beat of 80s music, she brings heart and energy to every experience.
For Wanda, Tarleton State has provided a community that has given her a sense of purpose, connection and belonging. She embodies the very spirit of the Heartbeat Award, giving her heart to initiatives, families and traditions that make Tarleton State special.
