Endowment Named in Honor of Educator and Historian Randolph L. Garner

Keene, Texas — Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) announced today that it has received a $1 million donation to establish a permanent endowment supporting the University’s History Department. At the donor’s request, the gift was made anonymously. The endowment will be named the Randolph L. Garner History Endowment, honoring the life and legacy of Randolph L. Garner, an educator, historian, and community leader known for his lifelong commitment to learning and historical preservation.

The endowment will provide long-term funding to strengthen the study and preservation of history at SWAU, supporting academic initiatives, student learning opportunities, and department priorities over time.

Randolph L. Garner (1947–2022) devoted more than four decades to education and public service. An alumnus of Seventh-day Adventist College in Keene, Garner later earned a master’s degree from Texas Christian University, reflecting his enduring dedication to scholarship and professional growth.

Garner served as an instructor and principal in Joshua ISD and eventually retired as superintendent of Blum Independent School District. Colleagues and community members remember him for his steady leadership and the lasting impact he had on students, teachers, and families across the region.

In addition to his work in public education, Garner invested significant time in local history and community heritage. He volunteered with the Chisholm Trail Museum, first as a schoolhouse teacher and later as past president. The museum’s current schoolhouse bears his name in recognition of his service. Garner also served as a Johnson County historian, contributing to regional historical documentation and education.

“Randolph Garner was committed educator who had a great respect for the history of this area,” said university leadership. “This endowment reflects his passion for history and his commitment to helping students understand the past.”  —George Vander Veer

Outside of his professional and volunteer work, Garner was known for his wide-ranging interests and community involvement. He participated in the Texas Cushman Club, served as president of the Vespa Scooters organization, and was a member of the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS). He owned Garner Classic Scooters in Cleburne and was widely recognized for his enthusiasm for Ford Mustangs and Vespa scooters, interests that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship, heritage, and storytelling.

University representatives said the endowment will serve as a lasting tribute, supporting students who study history as both a record of the past and a foundation for thoughtful leadership, service, and faith-informed engagement with the world.

“This gift is an extraordinary investment in our students and Southwestern Adventist University’s mission,” said university representatives. “We are grateful for the donor’s generosity and honored to preserve Randolph Garner’s legacy through this endowment.” —Johanna Penick

For questions about the History Department or to discuss supporting academic endowments at Southwestern Adventist University, visit https://swau.edu/give/scholarship-endowments for more information.

 

About Southwestern Adventist University

Southwestern Adventist University is a Christ-centered higher education institution dedicated to academic excellence, faith development, and service. Located in Keene, Texas, SWAU prepares students to lead purposeful, impactful lives with integrity.