H.R. No. 975


R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, In recognition of his exemplary record of service to Texas A&M University--Kingsville, Dr. Steven Lukefahr has been named a Texas A&M University System Regents Professor, the highest honor accorded faculty members by the system; and WHEREAS, Dr. Lukefahr is one of the world's leading experts on rabbits, particularly as a food source for malnourished citizens in third-world countries; in conducting his internationally recognized research, he has worked in more than 20 developing countries, helping to establish meat rabbit projects and alleviate hunger and poverty by using his own small-scale rabbit production model; and WHEREAS, This notable scientist and humanitarian has been a professor in the department of animal and wildlife sciences at Texas A&M University--Kingsville since 1994; one of the school's most popular professors, he has inspired many of his students to pursue careers as veterinarians, professors, and Peace Corps volunteers; and WHEREAS, Dr. Lukefahr is a graduate of Texas A&I University and Oregon State University, where he earned both master's and doctoral degrees, and he began his international work with Heifer International, establishing meat rabbit projects in Cameroon, West Africa; on his return to the United States, he accepted a position at Alabama A&M University and founded the International Small Livestock Research Center, served as a consultant in a host of overseas rabbit projects, and helped organize international rabbit conferences and coordinate research projects and student training programs; and WHEREAS, Currently the president of the World Rabbit Science Association, Dr. Lukefahr is also a member of the American Society of Animal Science, the European Association for Animal Production, and the Professional Rabbit Meat Association, and he is the author of two books, three manuals, and more than 100 papers published in national and international journals; and WHEREAS, In addition to this most recent honor, Dr. Lukefahr has received the International Animal Agricultural Bouffalt Award from the American Society of Animal Science, as well as the Javelina Alumni Association's Distinguished Researcher Award; and WHEREAS, Steven Lukefahr is an inspiration to all who are privileged to know him, and his important work, both in and outside the classroom, is having a profound impact on the global community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 79th Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Dr. Steven Lukefahr on being named a Regents Professor at Texas A&M University--Kingsville and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success with his important work; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Dr. Lukefahr as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Escobar ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 975 was adopted by the House on April 14, 2005, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House