Mr. Bison

As of yesterday evening, I know what the new mascot in heaven is......a Bison. We lost Bill Harris yesterday. "Mr. Bill", as we called him in the Advancement Office, was a good friend, co-worker and mentor to me. He also was one of my Shepherds. I will miss him greatly.

My association with Bill goes back to 1974. Jan had grown up with Nancy, so I met Bill thru my courting of Jan. I also worked for Bill and Ben Berry in the old box factory when I was in my Sophomore year at Harding. But no doubt for me and most of you, when I think of Bill I think of Bison Athletics. I don't guess I can prove it, but I believe that Bill and Lil have been to more Bison events than any other people in the history of the University. I know Dr. Ganus has been to most of them also, but he is gone out of the country so much I assume he has missed some events because of that. I remember back in the 70's Bill and Lil working in the Concession Stand at Bison games. When Matt was playing for the Bisons, we would pull up to some stadium in the middle of no where, and there Bill and Lil would be sitting in the bleachers. Bill was what I think of when someone mentions the words "Ultimate Fan". Going to Bison games just won't be the same for a long time!
I am so glad that the Academy Gym was dedicated and named for he and Lil before his passing. He was very deserving of that honor.

I loved Bill Harris. I am a better person because of his work ethic and energy.
I will miss his Shepherding talks, and his wisdom. He had a good walk, and I am glad I got to walk with him for a short while. I look forward to the time we will walk again on the other side...........probably beside some field of Bison.