A reception was held in honor of Jasper Neel on Wednesday afternoon in the Hughes Trigg Ballroom. Neel is retiring as vice provost and dean of Dedman College, but will continue to teach in the English department at SMU.
Neel first came to SMU in 1997.
“He has done an outstanding job as dean,” said SMU President R. Gerald Turner.
Nearly 250 members of the SMU community attended the reception. Neel’s wife Faye and daughter Elizabeth were also in attendance.
“This is a happy and a sad day,” remarked President Turner as he introduced Neel.
Neel was given a scrapbook comprised of pictures and event programs from his time at the university. He was also presented with a crystal mustang symbolizing his service to SMU.
“This is an extraordinary university,” said Neel as he accepted his gifts.
The former dean added, “This has been a privilege I never expected and for which I will be grateful for the rest of my life.”
Marshall Terry, an SMU English professor, commented on Neel’s service to the school, “He’s a remarkable dean. He made the college what it should be.”
Neel has contributed to the growth and activities on campus, including the construction of the Dedman Life Sciences Building.
“The students are going to love having him as a professor. He is a dynamic teacher,” said President Turner. -A. Neely Eisenstein