Bill Ratliff appointed to NTCC Board of Trustees

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Photo caption: †Gov. Bill Ratliff (right) is sworn in as a member of the 91²Ö¿â Board of Trustees by Titus County Judge Brian Lee.†

Tuesday evening, the 91²Ö¿â (NTCC) Board of Trustees unanimously appointed Bill Ratliff, former Lieutenant Governor of Texas, to the board of trustees. The appointment is for the next two years of the unexpired seat vacated by the retirement last month of long-time board member, Latrel McCallum.† In 2014, the seat will be up for election.

Governor Ratliff has a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas and worked as a consulting engineer for more than 35 years before being elected to represent Senate District 1 in 1988.† In December 2000, Ratliff was elected Lieutenant Governor by fellow members of the Texas Senate to fill the office vacated by Rick Perry, marking the first time in Texas history that the Senate selected one of its members to serve as Lieutenant Governor and President of the Senate.† Ratliff chaired the Senate Education Committee from 1992-1996 and chaired the Senate Finance Committee from 1997-2000.† He was named one of Texas? Best Legislators by Texas Monthly magazine six times.

The board considered its appointment in executive session before passing the resolution in a 5-0 vote.† According to Board Chair Dr. Dan McCauley, more than one name was considered.† ?This is a pivotal time for this college. NTCC faces some real challenges and the region?s need for our educational services has never been greater.† The board felt Gov. Ratliff?s knowledge of Texas, and proven good judgment, would be strong help in the future."

NTCC President Brad Johnson said, ?We are honored that someone of Gov. Ratliff?s stature and experience would be willing to serve our college.† He has always made himself available to NTCC, so we knew he cared about the college. But board service is time-consuming and requires members who go above and beyond.† I am thankful for his willingness.?

Board Vice-Chair Chuck Johns expressed appreciation to the other members of the community who volunteered for the position.† ?We had several good citizens who made themselves available.† It was good to see that people value the college enough to be willing to serve - unpaid.† I have known Bill Ratliff for several years.† I have great respect for his integrity and I look forward to his serving on our board.?