Texas State Representative Dr. Gary VanDeaver Receives A&M-Commerce Legislative Award

Texas State Representative Dr. Gary VanDeaver was recently awarded the Legislative Award by the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) at Texas A&M University-Commerce in recognition of his continuous support of the university. The award is given to distinguished alumni who have contributed significantly to A&M-Commerce through their efforts with state and federal legislatures.

Award recipient and Dr. Harp face the camera with a white backdrop behind them. They both have one hand on a framed award.
Dr. Gary VanDeaver (L) and Dr. Randy Harp (R), Thursday, May 10, 2024, in Commerce, Texas.
Photo by Tyler Holloway | Texas A&M University-Commerce Office of Marketing and Communications

“We appreciate Dr. VanDeaver's vision and continued efforts to transform the lives of students,” said Dr. Randy Harp, retired dean of CASNR. “He stands for quality education and works tirelessly to provide the materials and facilities needed so faculty can help students prepare for their career.”

A graduate of East Texas State University (now A&M-Commerce), VanDeaver served as the superintendent of New Boston Independent School District and as a vocational agriculture educator prior to that role.

With deep roots in Northeast Texas, he represents House District 1, including Bowie, Cass, Lamar, Morris and Red River counties. Since assuming state office in 2015, he has served on key committees, including public education and appropriations. He played a major role in securing the Tuition Revenue Bond for A&M-Commerce, which provides funding for the forthcoming Agricultural Multipurpose Education & Training Center, to be constructed on State Highway 24 south of Commerce.