With agriculture as a tenet of our organization, the State Fair of Texas is proud to induct Dr. Joe Townsend into the Texas Heritage Hall of Honor. Established in 1992 to recognize leaders who have made significant contributions to the agricultural heritage of Texas, the Texas Heritage Hall of Honor celebrates the accomplishments of these farmers, ranchers, drovers, inventors, educators, innovators, authors, legislators, and preservationists. Their achievements span more than 170 years, reaching back to the birth of the Texas Republic and extending out to a limitless future.
Considered annually, both living and deceased nominees are eligible to be inducted to the Heritage Hall of Honor. This year, Dr. Joe Townsend joins more than 75 men and women previously receiving this honor. On Wednesday, April 12, Dr. Joe Townsend will be inducted into the Texas Heritage Hall of Honor, located in the Briscoe Carpenter Livestock Center. The induction celebrates achievements and contributions that helped establish Texas as a premier agricultural leader in the nation.
Dr. Joe Townsend of College Station had a passion for developing students into advocates and was one of the guiding leaders who helped develop an agricultural leadership degree in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University. “Dr. Joe” served as associate vice president for student development and as associate dean for student development in addition to teaching in the College. He received numerous teaching awards throughout his career, including University Distinguished Teaching, and Student Relations and Administration awards from the Texas A&M University Former Students Association. Both he and his wife, Dr. Chris Townsend were honored with a proclamation from the 81st Texas Legislature for their agricultural advocacy and leadership. Upon his passing, the Dr. Joe Townsend ’67 Leadership Fellows Program was established, which supports the advancement of undergraduate study in leadership theory through the activities of a select cohort of students.
Dr. Joe Townsend impacted Texas agriculture by cultivating students. Brandon and Gara Hill said “Dr. Joe mentored us and now we mentor others. His love and gift of encouragement lives on forever.”
The State Fair of Texas is a celebration of all things Texan. There is no better way to learn about agriculture and Texas heritage than by walking through the livestock barns or the Briscoe Carpenter Livestock Center during the State Fair. Be sure to stop by the Heritage Hall of Honor, located on the second floor of the Briscoe Carpenter Livestock Center, or visit BigTex.com/Supporting-Texans/Agriculture/Hall-Of-Honor to view all of the inductees and learn more about the program.