Spring 2014 Ceremony

At 10 a.m., on Saturday, May 10, 2014, at the University of Louisiana at Monroe’s Fant-Ewing Coliseum, ULM President Dr. Nick J. Bruno will award degrees at ULM’s Spring 2014 Commencement Ceremony.

During this commencement, an honorary doctorate will be awarded to long-time ULM supporter Tex Kilpatrick.

Norris went on to receive a Doctorate in Business Administration from Mississippi State University in 1974. Norris earned a Bachelor of Arts in Government, from ULM in 1963, and began his professional career after earning a Master’s of Business Administration from Louisiana Tech University in 1965.

Norris taught courses in economics and finance at ULM for 12 years, beginning in 1966 leading up to his first term as West Monroe Mayor.

Upon becoming Mayor of West Monroe, Norris transitioned to part-time teaching at ULM, which he continued until 1998.

Norris also served as the Director of the Northeast Louisiana Small Business Institute from 1973-1975, and Choir Director at McGuire United Methodist Church in West Monroe, beginning in 1971. Norris continues to hold that post today.

Throughout his career, Norris has been active in professional and civic organizations including service as a trustee for the Monroe-West Monroe/Ouachita Parish Public Trust Financing Authority—serving as the organization’s President since 2005.

Norris has been a member of the Ouachita Council of Governments since 1978, and has served on the boards of both Glenwood Regional Medical Center and the Ward 5 healthcare Foundation.

Norris is married to Biddy Dupree Norris, a retired West Monroe High School business teacher. Together they have three children: Cindy, Dave, and Chris; and four grandchildren.