For 28 years, Dr. Pug Parris has embodied the spirit of McMurry with boundless enthusiasm and passion. Her students receive a one-of-a-kind education from a one-of-a-kind woman.

Why did you come to McMurry?
Why have you stayed?
“I began my faculty career in 1978 only five years after I had graduated from McMurry. In hindsight, there are two reasons why I returned to McMurry as a faculty member. First, I was so blessed by my own undergraduate experience at McMurry. The quality of education I received, the wonderful life-long friends I made, and the Heaven-sent husband I found at McMurry were unexpected perks of the baccalaureate experience. I have always wanted others to have similar blessings, and I felt back in 1978, as I still do today, a calling to fulfill my Christian mission through service. I am completing my twenty-ninth and proudly tell all that I love the traditions of McMurry--I just didn't know I was going to be one!”

“Also, the wonderful encouragement of Dr. Ralph Hester who has head of the Physical Education department was the impetus in getting my master's degree. On the day I received my bachelor's degree from McMurry, Dr. Hester congratulated me on a job well done, and asked when I would start my master's studies. "After all," he said, "I can't hire you until you get that degree." I was so honored someone I held in such high esteem saw such potential in me. Later, he was the driving inspiration in my completion of a doctorate. I pray I can inspire our current students in a similar manner.”

What do you think defines McMurry?
“The core values of McMurry are well-stated and define us as a body. The first core value, Christian Faith as the foundation of life, is a motivating factor for faculty members like myself. But likewise, we place heavy weight on personal relationships, learning, excellence, and service. I doubt if my students are aware that as I proctor exams, I am lifting each and every one of them up in prayer. Most of them would probably tell you I could answer their own prayers by giving easier exams, but they also know I am trying to raise them up to standards of excellence that are part of the McMurry experience.”<

What do you like best about teaching?
“The students! Mercy, they are different in so many ways-their learning styles, their experiences, and their dreams. I enjoy the challenge facing me on how to best present information. Sometimes I amaze myself with the amount of preparation time I do for classes. But I know why I am so driven. I want my content area to "click" with all the students. I want them not only to know the material, but also to believe the philosophy, and to seek ways to model it. I am so appreciative of the people I get to work with in our department. Dr. Paul Smith, Dr. Cynthia Rutledge, our assistant Dorothy Lee, and the wonderful adjuncts who teach classes for us make Team PE at McMurry the best. There are so many wonderful, caring persons in the McMurry community. It is a pleasure to be affiliated with such hard-working, dedicated servants.”

What do you hope to teach students?
“I want students to appreciate their God-given talents and use them for special purposes that will make this world a better place. I want my McMurry students to learn that with effort comes rewards. When you learn to use your energy, you'll be blessed with more energy. When you show love, you will receive more love in return. When you show others respect, you will be respected.”

What else are you involved in on and off campus?
“On campus, I co-sponsor the Physical Education Club/Phi Epsilon Kappa, and am involved with a number of faculty committees. During track season, I am announcer for the home track meets, and have a special place in my heart for the female athletes at McMurry. Off-campus, I am a member of Elmwood West United Methodist Church and a certified lay speaker for the UMC. I get to travel extensively as a consultant to train physical education teachers through continuing education opportunities. Currently I have made professional presentations in 23 states, and in Germany. I have a physical education product called Fitness Dice that has been marketed in the USA, United Kingdom and Japan, and I contributed to two physical education books, And the Beat Goes On and Physical Education Funbook.”