Mike and Rosie Moncrief, political and civic leaders in Fort Worth were awarded honorary doctor of humane letters degrees, May 11, 2013 during Commencement Ceremony at Tarleton State University’s Memorial Stadium.

“My wife said it best, out of all the awards we have received this is the most meaningful,” Mr. Moncrief said.

 Mr. Moncrief graduated from Tarleton in 1968. He was president of the student body and was the first Texan Rider. After earning his bachelor’s degree at Tarleton, he embarked on a career of service and spent more than 30 years in elected office.

Mr. Moncrief was in the Texas State Senate starting in 1991 where he served twelve years, the Texas House of Representatives where he served one term and has been the Tarrant County judge where he devoted 12 years of his life.

His most honorable servant leadership position was becoming mayor of the 16^th largest city in the nation, Fort Worth.

He is thrilled to be able to share this award with his wife especially since she is always right there by his side and successful in her own endeavors.

“This honor wasn’t just bestowed on to me but to my wife as well,” Mr. Moncrief said. He is thrilled to be able to have this special moment with not only is alma mater but with his wife as well.

Rosie Moncrief shares her husband’s passion for serving their community. She devotes her time to the Fort Worth community where she volunteers to address issues involving children, senior citizens and health care.

She is also dedicated in serving on a variety of boards, committees and fundraisers to help make a difference for current and future generations across North Texas.

Mrs. Moncief said that although her husband was able to gain a higher level of education she was not, “I came from a very poor rural family, my father died when I was 12 and my mother was widowed with 5 kids.”

She did not let her unfortunate circumstances affect the outcome of her life. “I come from a place in time where giving up and giving in is not an option. You have to be resilient and be able to persevere and you have to believe you can survive,” Mrs. Moncrief said.

She has done just that alongside her husband with the many positions they have both held.

“We just go through life doing what we feel is the right thing to do. To be even considered for a award that is rarely given is just so humbling,” Mrs. Moncief said. “When something in the mail arrives out of the blue like that, it just takes your breath away.”