Reta Haynes Gift To Establish Dean’s Chair, Support College Programs

In an ongoing effort to fulfill her passion for education, Reta Haynes provided a gift to endow the Reta Haynes Dean’s Chair to support the College of Education and Human Development. The gift will be matched by Texas A&M University’s chair matching program.

An endowed chair is an elite academic position held by top professors. Mrs. Haynes’ gift will assist in internal seed grants, support undergraduate experiences in research and support new academic programs as they get started. The goal is to impact access to, and quality of, educational and health opportunities across the state.

“Our world is changing so rapidly and there is a need to stay current to provide students with an experience that will make them successful in our public school classrooms,” Mrs. Haynes explained. “I hope that the establishment of this chair will provide opportunity and flexibility that will enhance this student experience.”

Mrs. Haynes became involved with the College of Education and Human Development shortly after her husband’s passing. She helped to establish learning communities in the college, focused on developing and retaining students planning careers in pre-K-12 education.

Continually impressed with the leadership the college was providing, Mrs. Haynes wanted to provide funding to support programs and attract talent to the college. Dr. Joyce Alexander, dean of the College of Education and Human Development, will be the first holder of the Reta Haynes Chair.

“Mrs. Haynes passion and enthusiasm for education is extraordinary,” said Dr. Alexander. “This gift will help the college to invest in our students and prepare them to be leaders in schools and communities across the state. I’m proud and excited to be the first holder of the Reta Haynes Chair.”

Mrs. Haynes has also given gifts to endow Corps of Cadets 21st Century Scholarships and establish the Reta Haynes Singing Cadet Endowment Fund.

Before her husband’s passing, Mrs. Haynes and Bill Haynes ’46 generously supported the university. Among their gifts was a gift to the Association of Former Students to create the Haynes Ring Plaza – named in their honor.

Mrs. Haynes summarized her thoughts as follows: “I am grateful to be able to give back to the university that provided such a good foundation and education to Bill. I have always treasured A&M traditions and values and consider myself an Aggie.”