For immediate release
Nov. 11, 2004

Dr. Mel Hailey, chair of Department of Political Science and pre-law advisor at Abilene Christian University, received the Abilene ARETE Award Tuesday.

The Abilene Education Council of the Chamber of Commerce honored Hailey for his involvement in the community, his ability to engage students in community service and his ethical conduct. A faculty member from each university in Abilene is honored every year.

Hailey has taught at ACU since 1979. While teaching at ACU, Hailey has received honors including University Teacher of the Year, CLFA Faculty of the Year, and a research award from the National Endowment for Humanities.

Hailey also has been an active member of the Abilene community, helping with non-profit organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, the NOAH Project and the United Way.

The ARETE Award is named after the Greek word for “civic and moral excellence.” The award was presented at the National Center for Childrens Illustrated Literature on Tuesday afternoon.