Terry Crofoot, a longtime supporter of Texas Tech's College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, today (Jun. 18) was presented a 'Volunteer Service Award' from the National Agricultural Alumni and Development Association in Alexandria, Va. Crofoot is vice president of Crofoot Cattle Company, a family-owned cattle ranching, real estate and quarter horse business based in Lubbock.

"Under his leadership, our equine programs have made great strides, and [Texas Tech's] equestrian center is now poised to become the premier facility that we have long hoped it would be," said Michael Galyean, dean of Tech's College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

During the past two years, Crofoot has served as the co-chairman of the Texas Tech Equestrian Program Development Council, a council consisting of some 50 members devoted to advancing and promoting the university's equestrian programs. In addition to the academic equine science curriculum, programs at Tech's equestrian center include a therapeutic riding center, equestrian team, ranch horse team and rodeo team.

"Terry's contributions are evident across the equestrian center," said Leslie Thompson, chairman of Texas Tech's Department of Animal and Food Sciences. "Whether an idea, a solution, a horse, or a new arena, we owe so much to Terry for his generosity and his efforts on our behalf."

Separately, Thompson noted that Crofoot has generously provided financial support to the program; donating money, horses, in-kind gifts, and the expertise and time of skilled employees. Currently, Texas Tech is rebuilding its outdoor arenas to improve aesthetics, safety and utility of the arenas thanks to Crofoot's support.

Among requirements for receiving the NAADA Volunteer Service Award are having given freely of their time to further the goals of their institution, demonstrated leadership and organizational skills to inspire and encourage others to further the success of agriculture and alumni programs.

Program officials note that the St. Paul, Mn.-based National Agricultural Alumni and Development Association is dedicated to the career and professional advancement of the alumni, development, student affairs and volunteer members of the association. One of its goals is to provide enhancement opportunities for advancement professionals in institutions of higher education associated with agricultural sciences and their related programs.

Written by Norman Martin

CONTACT: Jane Piercy, Director of Development and External Relations, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806)742-2802 or jane.piercy@ttu.edu

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