Refreshing Approach

Over the years, many of my UNT colleagues have shared their stories of Bob Toulouse (Provost Emeritus and longtime graduate dean who died in April). A common thread was usually that they would go see Dr. Toulouse with an idea while asking for money to move it forward. Rather than say no because there was no money, Bob usually would say that it was a great idea and offer ways to fine-tune and improve it. He would then add: "Let's find the money to make your proposal possible."

That was such a refreshing approach for those seeking help at UNT. And it speaks volumes about what kind of person and administrator Bob Toulouse was.

He was very helpful to me as my mentor and I was honored in return to be there to assist him and Virginia in their declining years.

Richard L. Simms
('64, '67 M.Ed.),
Professor Emeritus of teacher education and administration
Denton

Editor's note: See more tributes to Robert Toulouse and an essay from his granddaughter.