Discover Entomology at Texas A&M University

Texas AgriLife Extension director Dr. Ed Smith, right, congratulates Tom Fuchs on his upcoming retirement during a celebration at 7F Lodge on November 6.

Janis Fuchs hugs her husband, Dr. Tom Fuchs, after the party.

Dr. Tom Fuchs receives a watch and a congratulatory handshake from Dr. Kevin Heinz.

Farewell Dr. Tom Fuchs!

Dr. Tom Fuchs Retires from Texas AgriLife Extension IPM Program, Texas A&M System

November 17, 2008

Memories were shared over steak, fried chicken and cheesecake on a brisk Thursday night as friends, family and colleagues sent farewells to Dr. Tom Fuchs on November 6 at the 7F Ranch.

After serving approximately 39 years with the Texas A&M System, Tom Fuchs is retiring December 31 from his current position as an Extension Entomologist and Coordinator of the Texas IPM program.

Dr. Fuchs started his career as a lab technician with the Department in 1970. In 1971, he became a graduate student became a graduate research assistant within the Department in Dr. Horace Van Cleave’s laboratory.

After completing his Masters, Dr. Fuchs served as a research associate at the Weslaco office in 1972 and was a research scientist from 1974-1977 working for Drs. Jim Harding and Horace Van Cleave. He then became an assistant professor of entomology for the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station in Weslaco until 1979.

Dr. Fuchs moved to San Angelo where he served a total of 14 years as an Extension entomologist and a professor and Extension specialist before serving as the statewide IPM coordinator in 1993.

Dr Fuchs received several awards during his career, including the Regents Fellow Service Award from Texas A&M University Board of Regents in 2005 and the Superior Service Award from the Texas Cooperative Extension in 2002.

"I can't say enough the amount of professionalism that Tom has contributed to the IPM program," said Dr. Ed Smith, Texas AgriLife Extension director. "The nation recognizes that and Tom has certainly moved the program forward. Texas AgriLife Extension is proud of Tom’s accomplishments."

Department Head Dr. Kevin Heinz reflected on the great times he had working with Dr. Fuchs.

"Tom has made the IPM program one of the premiere IPM programs in the country and I appreciate that," he said. "I really appreciate what you have done personally with the IPM program and the recognition the IPM program has brought to the department."

Glen Moore, an Extension Agent-IPM for Ellis County praised Dr. Fuchs for his hard work and compassion.

"I really appreciate that you are a good Christian person," said Moore. "I appreciate all the support and advice over the years and thank you for that. I will miss you."

Fuchs thanked Drs. Perry Adkisson, Horace VanCleave and Ray Frisbie for supporting him when he was a student and serving as professional mentors. He also praised the IPM agents for their hard work in accomplishing the goals of the IPM program.

"Our agents have just been great and one of the hardest working groups I know," Fuchs said. "You have been very supportive and I appreciate that. Thank you."