Craddock, Emmie, 1915-1998

Dr. Emmie Craddock (1915–1998) was born in Shreveport, Louisiana. She graduated as an honor student from Rice University (1936) and then earned both her MA (1949) and PhD (1954) in history at the University of Texas. Craddock served in the U.S. Navy from 1942–1946 and retired from the Naval Reserve as a lieutenant commander. Craddock taught in Southwest Texas State University's history department from 1950–1980. She founded and directed the university's General Honors Program from 1967–1980. She received a number of awards in recognition for her service, including the Piper Award (1962) for excellence in teaching and the President's Excellence Award (1982). In addition, Craddock was the first female mayor in San Marcos history, holding office from 1974–1976 and then again from 1981–1989. She also served on the San Marcos City Council for many years. Governor White appointed Craddock as General Chairman of the Texas Sesquicentennial Celebration in 1986.