Murphree to receive Joe and Freda Provence Lifetime Service Award

PLAINVIEW — Wayland Baptist University Alumni Association recognizes longtime servant-leader Danny Murphree with the Joe and Freda Provence Lifetime Service Award during the annual Blue and Gold Banquet, on Friday Feb. 7.

The banquet, a key event of Wayland’s 2025 Homecoming celebration, takes place at 6 p.m. in Trinity Sanctuary on the university’s Plainview campus. To reserve a seat, go to https://bit.ly/4hjnw6z or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 806-291-3600.

A 1969 graduate of Wayland, Murphree dedicated much of his career to the university in various capacities before retiring. His service to Wayland began in 1971 when he returned as interim track coach, leading the men’s team for two years. He then transitioned into administrative roles while continuing to support athletics, serving as assistant women’s basketball coach for the Flying Queens and head coach of the Queen Bees, guiding them to a Texas Collegiate Intercollegiate Athletic Women’s (TCIAW) state championship in 1974.

Murphree’s contributions extended beyond athletics as he took on leadership in business operations, serving in positions such as Director of Sales and Services, Director of Auxiliary Services, and Director of Property Management. From 1991 until his retirement, he managed the university’s estate farms and mineral interests, overseeing agricultural properties that provided critical financial support to Wayland. His role also included supervising faculty and staff housing, vehicle fleet operations, campus security, and property insurance.

“Danny Murphree’s impact on Wayland goes far beyond titles and job descriptions,” said Jeffrey Vera, Director of Alumni Relations and Career Services. “He has been a dedicated leader, a mentor to many, and a true steward of the university’s resources. His legacy of service will be felt for generations to come.”

In addition to his work at Wayland, Murphree has been deeply involved in the Plainview community, serving as a deacon and Sunday school teacher at First Baptist Church, as well as on the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment for the City of Plainview.

Other individuals scheduled to be recognized during the Blue and Gold Banquet include Dr. Lee Baggett and Dr. John Blevins, Distinguished Alumni Awards; Jovanna Duffy, Young Alumnus Award; and Jolene Gary, Benefactor of the Year.

The event is a highlight of the university’s Homecoming festivities, which begin today, Feb. 5, and continue Saturday, Feb. 8. HOCO ’25 brings together alumni and friends to celebrate Wayland’s legacy.