Published: May 09, 2008 12:55 pm            

Morris’ impact remembered

Educator helped shape others’ lives

He might be gone, but Jerry Morris’ impact on the community has not been forgotten.

Morris was honored as his family accepted his District 20 Administrator of the Year award for Oklahoma vocational technology schools at a ceremony Tuesday evening.

Those who knew and worked with Morris said while he might have been embarrassed to receive the award, it would only be because he was not one to take credit for himself.

“He was a man of principle, integrity and honor,” said Marilyn Cox, academic services coordinator at Red River Technology Center where Morris was superintendent for nearly 13 years. “It’s great to see him get some recognition, and although he wouldn’t have wanted all the fuss, he does deserve the honor.”

Nominated for the award in December, Morris was selected by peers for the honor.

His daughter, Starlet Files, said she didn’t think her father would receive recognition after his death.

“I feel he’s very deserving,” Files said. “I wasn’t expecting him to receive any awards after his death. I do think he’s very deserving. Of course, I’m his daughter.”

An educator herself — Files teaches in Velma — she said the award is a representation of all Morris did in and for the community.

“It’s quite an honor that your peers would think highly enough of you to honor you with an award,” she said.

“It speaks a lot for what he did for the vo-tech.

“He loved the vo-tech, he loved helping kids,” she continued.

“He just felt like everybody had the capability of furthering their education and it didn’t have to be in college.”

Anita Hasenmyer, RRTC coordinator of adult and continuing development, said it was Morris’ leadership abilities that helped him to shape the lives of those with whom he came in contact.

“It’s no surprise that he earned the award,” Hasenmyer said.

“Jerry was a great educator to students, employees and community leaders, as well.

“He had an ability to take you from where you were and take you outside your comfort zone. Then he would teach other people that same skill.

“He was able to help you become a better person,” she said.

Duncan Public Schools Superintendent Sherry Labyer knows first-hand what Hasenmyer means.

“He, personally, was such a mentor to me. He just valued everybody,” Labyer said.

“He was one of the wisest, most dedicated school people I have ever been around. He was just such a gentleman, so smart, so deserving of the award.”

        

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