Scholarship Created in Honor of Merchant

Jimmy N. Merchant

Merchant said he is honored to receive such a recognition.

"It is indeed an honor for the faculty and staff in the Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling to establish a scholarship in my name," said Merchant. "The opportunity to develop and establish the Ed.D. program in educational leadership has been the capstone to my entire career.

"They are truly professional individuals who operate in a very collegial atmosphere," he added. "It is my hope this scholarship will enable future students to experience life at Sam Houston State."

Merchant officially retired from SHSU five years ago, but has continued to work part time since. He took over as acting dean of the College of Education and Applied Science in 2001 when Thomas Wood became ill.

Merchant currently teaches classes in educational leadership and will step down from his part time work after the spring semester.

"SHSU has been my home and career since 1969. I cannot think of any other educational institution which would have provided a more satisfying environment for a career," said Merchant. "My interactions with the students, faculty and staff have been rewarding both personally and professionally. The opportunity to work closely with public schools and professional organizations in Texas has aided me greatly."

Merchant received his bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees from Texas A&M Commerce. Upon completion of his doctorate in 1969, Merchant was hired as a professor of education at SHSU.

In the time he as been at Sam Houston State, Merchant has also held positions as coordinator of elementary education, chair of the division of teacher education and director of the Center for Research and Doctoral Studies in Educational Leadership.

His wife, Joyce, is an employee of the Huntsville Independent School District.

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SHSU Media Contact: Brandon Autrey
Nov. 7, 2002
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