For 25 years, Dr. Eddie Henderson has worked at WTAMU. Before becoming the Dean of the College of Education and Social Sciences, he earned his doctorate in education. Later he received his law degree from Texas Tech. When Dr. Henderson joined the faculty at WT, the University was not yet a part of the A&M system.
“I helped with the merger between West Texas State University and the A&M system,” Dr. Henderson said. “Then I taught education law as a part-time professor.”
In the classroom, Dr. Henderson attempts to engage the students to discuss and think, and allow them to argue with critical analysis. Having a law degree and being trained to argue influences his class room teaching.
“I have had students tell me that I don’t really teach, I perform,” Dr. Henderson said. “My teaching is more lectures centered, but through that I bring my experience of argumentation, and create a conversation that we can really discuss.”
Dr. Henderson serves in many different capacities while as a dean. One role he enjoys fulfilling is being a part of the WT Grievance Committee where he is an active member. In his position he works with other faculty, staff and students to make decisions.
“He is an amazing person,” Stayce Perez, a junior biology major, said. “While serving alongside him, I’ve seen overwhelming fairness, justice and sincerity.”
Last year Dr. Henderson went to Turkey with the Readership program. His contacts, vast travel and familiarity with the country played a role in educating WT students.
“What a fascinating man,” Brandy Roberts, a public administrative major, said. “He is able to make you think by completely going against the norm of thought. Much like the term ‘devil’s advocate,’ he’s able to argue both sides of a point beautifully.”
Roberts met Dr. Henderson through Student Government, and has had the opportunity to eat lunch with him.
“He is legitimately interested in bettering his specific college,” Roberts said. “Continually he’ll ask ‘what can I do to help you?’”
Dr. Henderson enjoys exploring different cultures, meeting new people, visiting old friends and working to accommodate his local and international community. He has traveled to over fifteen different countries while working at WT.
“I think some people are afraid of his position and experience,” Roberts said, “but deep down inside he is a guy who likes to help better the world.”
Dr. Henderson has three grandchildren he loves to talk about ages seven, five and three. He is a family man who enjoys including and spending time with his family.
“I went to lunch with them a couple of days ago,” Dr. Henderson said, “and they really make my life feel whole.”
