Honoring Service

Drayton McLane receives Regent Emeritus designation

On Feb. 11, Baylor Regents honored Drayton McLane Jr., BBA '58, with the rare designation of Regent Emeritus, "In recognition of a quarter century of distinguished service that has consistently reflected visionary leadership, Christian commitment, personal integrity and a profound and active love in support of his alma mater, Baylor University," said R. Dary Stone, JD '77, chairman of the Board of Regents.

"Drayton McLane is a wonderfully generous alumnus who has been remarkably consistent in his support of Baylor University. A tremendously successful and accomplished businessperson, he has demonstrated again and again effective leadership, personal integrity and an impeccable work ethic in service to Baylor, impacting positively virtually every aspect of university life," Stone said.

McLane served as a Baylor Trustee and Regent from 1988 to 2006. He served as chairman of the board from 2002-04. He and his wife, Elizabeth, have supported numerous student scholarship funds, academic programs and capital projects at Baylor, including the McLane Student Life Center, which was named in his family's honor in 1999. Stone lauded McLane for his "unwavering and bold commitment," especially to his responsibilities on the Baylor board.

"During his tenure as chairman, the Baylor University Board of Regents successfully strengthened the institution's endowment, assisted with the revitalization of Baylor's athletics program, and expanded and beautified our campus," Stone said. Under McLane's leadership, the University completed facilities such as the Baylor Sciences Building, the Harry and Anna Jeanes Discovery Center within the Sue and Frank Mayborn Natural Science and Cultural History Museum Complex, and the North Village Residential Community, enhancing Baylor's rigorous academic community and strengthening residential life.

"This recognition is a great honor. I am a proud graduate of Baylor University, along with my sons and many members of our family," McLane said in accepting his award. "I was on the Baylor Board of Regents for 18 years and was the chairman of the board for two years. The days and years ahead have great potential, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of Baylor's continued success."

In its history, Baylor University has only bestowed upon eight other distinguished individuals the title of Regent Emeritus. McLane is just the ninth individual ever to receive the honorary and lifetime title from Baylor, and one of just four living (joining George Anson, Harry Jeanes and Winfred Moore). As such, he will be invited to sit in on Regents' meetings, though not in a voting role.