Howard Hesby relief sculpture
The relief sculpture of Howard Hesby, crafted by artist Scott Myers, is displayed in the Howard Hesby Student Atrium located in the Kleberg Animal and Food Sciences Center.

COLLEGE STATION — A bronze relief sculpture of Dr. Howard Hesby, long-time and well-respected professor in the Department of Animal Science, was unveiled on Dec. 8, 2012 in the Howard Hesby Student Atrium located in the Kleberg Animal and Food Sciences Center at Texas A&M University.

The relief was crafted by western artist and Fort Worth native Dr. Scott Myers, a former student of Dr. Hesby’s and Texas A&M graduate.

Mounted near the south entrance of the atrium, the relief serves as a permanent reminder of the atrium’s namesake, Dr. Howard Hesby, who was a great friend to the students in the Department of Animal Science. To honor his work and legacy as a teacher, advisor and mentor, the atrium was named in his memory in 2007 and renovated in 2011 to become a more student-friendly area.

“Prior to his death in 2005, Dr. Hesby searched for ways to provide a space where students could network, study and relax. Now that this space has been created, we wanted to truly recognize Dr. Hesby for his vision,” said Dr. Russell Cross, head of animal science. “The bronze relief was the most ideal solution because of the beautiful way we knew it would complement the rugged-but-luxurious look of the renovated atrium. For generations to come, Aggie students will know how important Dr. Hesby was to this department and to his students.”

Artist Scott Myers, Kay Hesby and Dr. Russell Cross standing at the unveiling of the relief sculpture.
Artist Scott Myers, Kay Hesby and Dr. Russell Cross at the unveiling of the relief sculpture.

The bronze relief sculpture measures 32 inches by 40 inches and was originally sculpted in oil base clay. Working closely with Kay Hesby, Myers created this portrait slowly and deliberately over a period of seven months, attempting to create not only a true physical likeness but also to capture the sincerity and genuineness of Dr. Hesby’s character.

“It has been a true honor and privilege to be chosen to create a lasting sculptural memorial to a man who influenced my life so profoundly,” Myers said.

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