Howard Payne University recognized Brownwood businessman Dr. Leonard Underwood, a member of the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy Board of Directors, for attending his 50th Academy Board Meeting.
Dr. Bill Ellis, HPU president, presented Dr. Underwood with the Douglas MacArthur Freedom Medal, given by the Academy to honor individuals who share Dr. Guy D. Newman’s vision of promoting Judeo-Christian values, our Western heritage and the free enterprise system.
Previously the Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom, the program was founded in 1962 under the leadership of Dr. Newman, who served as president of the university from 1955 to 1973.
Dr. Justin Murphy, dean of HPU’s School of Humanities, is the director of the Newman Honors Academy.
“Dr. Underwood has been instrumental in supporting the Academy’s Moot Court and Model United Nations programs,” said Dr. Murphy.
Dr. Underwood, an active civic supporter, also serves on the HPU Board of Trustees.
“Dr. Underwood has exhibited exemplary leadership not only at HPU but across the Brownwood community,” said Dr. Ellis. “We are proud to recognize him for his service.”
Photo cutline: Dr. Bill Ellis, left, presents Dr. Leonard Underwood with the Douglas MacArthur Freedom Medal.