Distinguished Alumnus Dr. James Turman Dies

Dr. James Turman, former speaker of the Texas Legislature and A&M-Commerce Distinguished Alumnus, passed away on February 13. Turman earned two degrees from East Texas State Teachers College, now A&M-Commerce, including a Bachelor of Science in 1948 and a Master of Science in 1949. He was elected to the Texas Legislature in 1954, 1956 and 1958, and he was elected speaker of the Texas Legislature in 1960. Among several roles in federal government, Turman served as director of the President's National Advisory Council on Extension and Continuing Education under Presidents Nixon and Ford. Turman is survived by his wife, Joanie Turman, of Austin, Texas.