Jimmy P. Ferris Endowed Scholarship

James Paul “Jim” Ferris received his Bachelor of Arts in Teaching from Sam Houston State University in 1969. Fate brought Jim to Sam Houston State College in 1965. With all his characteristic enthusiasm, he embraced campus life. He was a member o the Sigma Chi fraternity, head cheerleader, sophomore class favorite, all-college favorite and senior class president. Being a member of the last class to graduate from Sam Houston State College and the first to graduate from Sam Houston State University, Jim received two diplomas in 1969 for his Bachelor of Arts degree in industrial arts with a teaching certification. Described by his friends and colleagues as a man with little ego and no guile, a man of dignity without formality, Jim sees the world as it is without ever losing hope about what it might become. His ability to find and recognize the good in everyone has characterized him throughout his life. He treats everyone as though each was very special and always applies the Golden Rule to all circumstances. His vigorous spirit and optimistic outlook compliments his boundless enthusiasm and energy. Tonya Ferris is currently a full-time office administrator at Wismer Distributing. She participates in the development and implementation of the company’s plans and programs. She has been married to Jim Ferris for 21 years. Her greatest joy is being with her family; especially her daughter, Danielle and son, James Paul. After a lifelong friendship and business partnership with Jim Ferris. Michael and Ann are honoring him by establishing the Jimmy P. Ferris Scholarship Endowment at his alma mater, Sam Houston Stale University. This tribute acknowledgement was presented to Jim as a Christmas present in 2014.