Weatherford College honors outstanding alumni

From Weatherford College

Weatherford College honored several outstanding alumni at their Alumni Awards Luncheon Friday.

Shaun Martin, Prissy Neely and Wayne Slimp were all recognized as Distinguished Alumni, and retired Weatherford Fire Marshal Kurt Harris was awarded the title Alumnus of the Year.

Harris shared stories about friendships he gained during his time at WC that have lasted his entire lifetime.

“Friendships that have lasted for generations way before me and that will last way after me are made in this place,” he said. “The administration here is beyond compare, and I am so grateful that they are a part of who we are.”

Harris left WC in 1968, spent six years in the military and then 39 years employed by the Weatherford Fire Department, during which time he earned several promotions and awards. He also served as Assistant State Fire Marshal and is currently Assistant Parker County Fire Marshal.

“Thank you for this honor,” Harris said. “I can’t, in any kind of humility say I deserve this. Except that, if the qualification for this is that you love the community that gave it to you, then I’m qualified; because I love each and every one of you. I love the opportunities you have given me as fire marshal and as firefighter before that. And I look forward to serving you further, however God lays it in front of me.”

Neely and Slimp also shared stories about how their days at WC impacted their lives. Martin was not able to attend the luncheon because he is on a nationwide tour with Gospel singer Kirk Franklin.