FFA teacher Hagler receives celebration of induction for HOF

Several friends, family, students and colleagues showed up at the County Seat Café to celebrate the life and accomplishments of retired FFA teacher, Mr. C. J. “Shorty’’ Hagler was inducted into the Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas Hall of Fame.

According to the Texas Teachers Association website, “The Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas Hall of Fame exists to recognize and honor agricultural science teachers whose careers, achievements, and contributions stand exemplary. Inductees are known as well-rounded professionals that have proven their success with FFA activities, in the classroom, as well as community involvement. They have proven their desire to provide students with opportunities for premier leadership, personal growth and career success over a significant period of time.”

This year Hagler and fellow colleague Squire Cole Jr. were inducted into the hall of fame from Linden.

At the celebration of induction held on July 31, Hagler walked into the restaurant meeting room where he was greeted by well over 100 people who Hagler had positively influenced. Former students Horace D. Hodge and Darla Washington-Chitsey emceed the event with Mr. Hodge presenting Hagler with the Award alongside Washington-Chitsey, John Derrick, Joseph Calhoun and Joanna Duncan.

Derrick a former student from the Class of 1981 started the evening with an opening prayer.

In between The opening prayer and the benediction from Joseph Calhoun a former student of the Class 1974 shared admiration and stories about having Hagler as a teacher. At one point it was asked how many people received a “whooping” by Mr. Hagler with quite a few hands going up. Generally, though through it all people respected Hagler for making quality men and women out of his students.

After the prayer, The Honorable Lynn Reynolds, Mayor of Linden, Texas gave the introductory welcome. Followed by Ron Watson former student from the Class of 1983 who set the occasion. Shortly after the families of Mr. Hagler and Cole were introduced by Hodge and Washington-Chitsey. Marcus Hill the Board Chairman of Ag Workers Insurance gave the special remarks.

Linden native and legendary Eagles member Don Henley who was unable to attend sent a personal note to Hagler, and a monetary donation. Mr. Hagler welcomed the interaction and warmly greeted each student and associate that shared their love for him.

According to a short biography left for the attendees, Mr. Hagler received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture in 1950 from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. After earning his degree, he worked in West Texas educating farmers thru the GI Bill, then began teaching vocational agriculture in Madelle, Texas.

ln 1960, Mr. Hagler began teaching at Linden-Kildare High School. When Fairview and Linden-Kildare school districts were integrated in the fall of 1969 he became the co-agriculture science teacher with Mr. Squire Cole, Jr. He taught vocational agriculture for a total of 43 years.

During his teaching career, he trained many FFA teams in skills; quiz; public speaking and livestock competitions at the District, Area and State levels. He was known for his “secret” chicken recipe that he would only share with students that showed chickens for him! Shorty Hagler laid the groundwork for a former student Horace Hodge, to serve (2) three-year terms on the Texas FFA Association Board of Directors. Mr. Hagler was also instrumental in helping to guide two students to be elected as State FFA Officers -John Derrick and Darla Washington. Mr.

Hagler is proud to have earned his Texas State Honorary Farmer degree. Mr. Hagler has always told his students, “Believe in God, work hard, treat others as you want to be treated and you will be successful.” He practiced what he taught his students. He also taught and continually reminded his students that what matters most in life is the influence you have on a town.

Former students of Mr. Hagler will always remember the first lesson he gave of a “firm handshake”. At 94 years old, he still has that firm handshake, and makes sure he looks you in the eye when having a conversation with you.

Mr. Hagler was married to Robbie Adams Hagler for 67½ years until her death in January 2017. Mrs. Hagler and their children, Terressa and Todd were generous with the time they allowed Mr. Hagler to spend with his students to help them succeed. He told his students daily he loved them and when former students go to visit, he reminds them he still loves them.

Numerous students over the years have become Agriculture Science teachers due to the influence Mr. Hagler had during their FFA careers. This is a testament to the type of teacher he was. Mr. Hagler has a love for the FF A and his students regardless of who they were or where they came from and IS very deserving to be inducted into the Texas Ag Teachers Hall of Fame.