Norris, William E., 1985 November 26

File — Box: 3, Folder: 7

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Dr. Norris talks about his experiences at Southwest Texas State University as both a student in the 1930s and a faculty member. He also discusses his experiences in the Navy during World War II, his own botany research, and how San Marcos has changed. He specifically mentions Sewell Park, Spring Lake, flooding, campus housing, the demonstration school, and past and current campus buildings.
Interviewed by John L. Horak

Dates

1985 November 26

Creator

From the Collection: Southwest Texas State University. Department of History (Organization)
From the Collection: Brown, Ronald C., 1945- (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

Open to researchers without restriction.

Biographical note

Dr. William E. "Henry" Norris Jr. (1921–1993) grew up in Nixon, Texas. Norris graduated from Southwest Texas State Teachers College in 1940 with degrees in chemistry and mathematics. He earned his PhD in physiology, physical and biochemistry, and microbiology from The University of Texas at Austin in 1948. He taught at UT and Bryn Mawr College before returning to SWTSTC. Norris served on active duty during World War II and remained active in the Naval Reserve from 1942–1969.

Norris served in a variety or roles at the university from 1949 until his semi-retirement in 1982. He was professor of biology, chairman of the biology department, dean of the School of Science, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, dean of the university, and vice president for academic affairs. He belonged to a number of professional organizations, holding leadership positions in groups such as the American Society of Plant Physiologists, the Texas Academy of Science, and the Texas Association of College Teachers.

Norris received the university's President's Excellence Award in 1983 and Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1986. The Texas State University System Board of Regents named Norris Distinguished Professor of Biology of Emeritus. The Henry Norris Scholarship in Biology was established in his honor at the university in 1983.