Fort Worth, Texas - May 8, 2024 - Texas Wesleyan University proudly recognized the outstanding dedication and commitment of its esteemed faculty and staff members at the annual Stars of Service event. The ceremony honored individuals who have devoted five, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 45 years of service to the University. Below is the list of honorees. 

5 Years: Dr. Luis Aguirre, Dr. Connie Barker, Dr. Kelly Crawford, Terrance Davis, Dr. Jenny Dean, Dr. Denise De La Rosa, Priscila Dilley, Cynthia Givan, Amber Jay, Jennifer Murphy, Bridget Rivera, Kevin Rodricks, Cynthia Rodriguez, Michael Rosas, Dr. Jessica Salazar, Dr. Scott Shaffer, Dr. Khalid Shaikh, Dr. Junghoon Song, Paula Tran 

10 Years: Dr. Cary Adkinson, Kelly Anderson, Dr. Sharon Carano, Stephanie Diersen, Brian Franks, Dr. Gokcen Ogruk-Maz, Amy Orcutt, Dr. Christopher Parker, Dr. Alison Simons, Bruce Terry 

15 Years: Dr. Paul Austin, Judy Baker, Dr. Kay Colley, Cynthia Gonzales, Dr. Whitney Myers, Dr. Phillip Pelphrey, Eddie Rodriguez, Dr. Sinan Yildirim 

20 Years: Dr. Gladys Childs, Faby Rodriguez 

25 Years: Dr. Chitra Chandrasekaran, Hope Ellis, Maria Hernandez, Kevin Millikan, Katherine Prater 

45 Years: Joe Brown 

Professor Joe Brown: A Texas Wesleyan Star  

Professor Joe Brown, affectionately known as "Pro Joe" by students, is a Texas Wesleyan treasure. For an incredible 45 years, he has dedicated himself to the University, serving in various roles that have all centered around student success.  

Professor Brown's journey began in the theatre department, where he not only taught technical theatre and speech classes but also actively participated in set and light design. His passion for the arts extends beyond the classroom, with involvement in the Texas Educational Theatre Association and the Live Theatre League of Tarrant County.  

Recognizing his nurturing spirit, Professor Brown transitioned to become Dean of Freshman Success — which he held for 19 years. In this role, he championed the needs of first-year students, ensuring a smooth transition to college life. His infectious enthusiasm and signature "freshman-friendly" attire made him a warm and approachable face for countless new Rams.  

When he's not lighting up the stage or helping freshmen navigate college life, you might find him at his home, which he affectionately calls the "East Side Zoo and Animal Haven." He shares his life with a menagerie of furry and feathered friends, including dogs, cats and even exotic parrots!  

Professor Brown's dedication to Texas Wesleyan has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Earl Brown Faculty Award and the Wesleyan Flame and Medal Awards. This year, at the Stars of Service ceremony, we celebrate not just his years of service, but the profound impact he has had on generations of students and the entire Texas Wesleyan community.