National Park College trustees, faculty and staff on Monday reflected on the legacy of former college President Thomas Morris Spencer, who died this weekend, "with great sadness and heavy hearts."
"He was a quiet, humble leader with a lifelong love of learning. He had a calming demeanor and is best remembered for his fiscal responsibility and deep dedication to student success," a news release from NPC said.
"He was a stabilizing presence for the college during a time of great change. Many remember his ability to recognize and nurture potential in others and his drive to advocate for those who had difficulty speaking up for themselves."
Spencer, 74, held a Bachelor of Arts degree and a doctorate from the University of Texas, and a Master of Arts degree from Texas Tech University. He began his professional career as dean and chief instructional officer for Mitchell College in Statesville, N.C., in 1964. He gained experience in the same role at Bee County College in Beeville, Texas, and later worked for the Texas College and University System as director of compensatory education. In 1972, he joined the Arkansas Department of Higher Education, where he served in many different roles supervising agency and institutional finance and academic affairs until 1990. He served as president of East Arkansas Community College from 1990 to 1994.
He was an important part of the evolution of National Park College, the release said, who began his role Sept. 1, 1994, as president of Garland County Community College and retired in June 2005. Upon his retirement, he was honored as president emeritus by the NPC board of trustees. He facilitated some of the most significant building projects the campus has seen, including conclusion of construction of the Gerald Fisher Campus Center, two faculty office buildings and renovation of the Computer Center. During his time, campus was greatly expanded, adding more than 45 acres to the property. He oversaw the merger of GCCC and Quapaw Technical Institute in 2003.
"His conservative fiscal management set the direction for NPC to move forward in solid financial shape for many years to come," the release said.
Spencer's accomplishments carried on far beyond his tenure. Immediately after his retirement, he joined the NPC Foundation Board of Governors, serving as an active member from August 2005 until his death. He served on the NPC Foundation's scholarship committee and established the Spirit of NPC Award in 2012 in honor of his parents, Thomas and Rachel Spencer. The award is given at commencement each year to the student who best exemplifies academic achievement, contribution to the spirit of the college, and personal advancement. He also served as chairman of the Hot Springs National Park Rotary Club Scholarship Committee.
"Tom was a gentleman, mentor and friend and one of the greatest individuals I have had the honor of knowing," Sally Carder, past NPC president, said. "His great sense of humor and dry wit created wonderful memories. We had a special relationship because of the many hours we spent together working through the merger of GCCC and QTI. He was a great advocate for students and I am proud that he took time to train and mentor me. I cherish every moment."
"His personal friendship and mentorship was crucial to my own success leading this organization," NPC President John Hogan said. "I appreciate the path he cleared for the college's long-term success, and the generous contributions he continued for the remainder of his life. His mark on this college is undeniable. He leaves a remarkable legacy of growth and progress. His experience and professionalism will forever be remembered."
Local on 04/12/2016