After 19 years of service at Texas A&M University-Commerce, Mary Lou Hazal received Meritorious Service Award on Dec. 13 at the president’s holiday gala.
Hazal was recognized for her work in media relations for the University and participation in Press Women of Texas (PWT) and the National Federation of Press Women (NFPW).
Growing up around Celeste in Hunt County, Mary Lou got her bachelors degree in Journalism and Political Science in 1975 at then, East Texas State University (A&M-Commcerce). She then went on to get her masters in Public Administration at Wichita Falls in 1980.
Getting back involved in Journalism in college, Hazal became a part of the NFPW, and attends the conferences for members each September. She has been a part of this organization since starting her first job at the Greenville Herald Banner right out of college.
A part of the Salem-Kinser church in Greenville, Hazal regularly attends morning services each week and singles sunday school.
Nominated for the Meritorious award by Randy Jolly, executive director of marketing communications, she was very surprised and overjoyed to receive it.
Throughout her career, Hazal has earned several other awards, including the Professional Achievement Award in 1996.
In her spare time, she enjoys listening to bluegrass and country music, including Vince Gill, Leanne Rhymes and Martina McBride, while still enjoying older artists like the Oakridge Boys, whom she grew up with.
The East Texan would like to congratulate Mary Lou Hazal on her award and years of dedication to A&M-Commerce.