The Sherman Ex-Students Association honored five Distinguished Students at its annual association luncheon and meeting on Sept. 27 at Sherman High School.

The association is dedicated to preserving the cultural and literary histories of Sherman and Fred Douglass high schools through a curated museum, as well as supporting the education of current Sherman students through involvement and scholarships.

This year’s award recipients are:

Larry Thomas Harris, Class of 1992

​Larry T. Harris is an accomplished patent attorney, entrepreneur, and award-winning winemaker who has built a remarkable career spanning technology, law, viticulture, and enology. After graduating from SHS, Larry earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Electrical Engineering and Mathematics from Southern Methodist University, and he received his Doctor of Jurisprudence from Santa Clara University School of Law and later earned his MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Larry is a member of the American Intellectual Property Law Association, the Washington State Intellectual Property Law Association, and the American Bar Association.

Dr. Lesley Freeny Leach, Class of 1992

Dr. Lesley Freeny Leach currently serves as Dean of the College of Education at Tarleton State University. A proud graduate of SHS, she went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Learning and Development from The University of Texas at Austin, a Master of Science in Computer Education and Cognitive Systems, and a Ph.D. in Educational Research from the University of North Texas. Over her career, she has taught both elementary and university students and supported the growth and development of faculty in higher education. In her spare time, Lesley enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Larry Mayo, Class of 1961 (Posthumously)​

As a career journalist, Larry dedicated more than 40 years to the Texas daily newspaper industry. His passion for journalism and commitment to ethics in the newspaper industry and to the hardworking personnel who supported his efforts earned him the respect of both publishers and politicians throughout his career. After completing all but three hours of a degree from the University of Texas, Larry founded a small weekly newspaper in Lancaster before he was drafted into the Army. After he was discharged, he took a position at the Dallas Times Herald before landing at the Palestine Herald-Press where he became the editor and publisher until retirement in 2004. In retirement, Larry went back to complete his degree at age 79, and he passed away in June 2023.

Freddie B. Orr Jr, Class of 1973​

After graduating from SHS, Freddie B. Orr earned his business administration degree at East Texas State University and was hired by Titche’s Department Store in Dallas, which later became Joske’s. Freddie was an assistant buyer in the men’s department and a Divisional Sales Manager of multiple departments throughout the store. He also spent more than 30 years in the food industry in a variety of settings, including TGI Fridays, KFC, Subway, Jason’s Deli, and several more. In 2008 he received his call to ministry and has served seven churches in the Dallas area as Senior Pastor. Currently he is the Associate Pastor in Pastoral Care at Waples Memorial UMC in Denison.

Leonard Polk, Class of 1975

While Leonard Polk was still in high school, he began to work on campus, unbeknownst to him, beginning his five-decade long legacy. Leonard was in a band, and his schedule as a custodian allowed him to play gigs in the evening and on weekends. During his time as a custodian in SISD, he has worked at SHS, Crutchfield Elementary and Fairview Elementary, with 35 of those years at Crutchfield. Today, he manages approximately 75 like-minded, passionate custodians, and he says meeting students’ needs is why he continues to choose Sherman ISD year after year. Leonard’s love for Sherman is reflected in the relationships he has built across the district, whether it be with coworkers or students.

Sherman Ex-Students Association membership is open to graduates and former students of Sherman and Fred Douglass high schools.

Call 903-891-6737 for more information.