Thanks to the initiative of Frank Johnson '68, former religion professor Dr. Alice Wonders’ legacy will continue to live on at Texas Wesleyan. Frank is the founder of The Stars of Wonders, a group of alumni who meet via Zoom each month to talk about Dr. Wonders and the impact she had on her students’ lives.

On June 2, 2022, the Eunice and James L. West Library accepted a donation of books from Dr. Wonders’ granddaughter, Ruth, coordinated by The Stars of Wonders. This collection includes a workbook on the New Testament written by Dr. Wonders, two copies of the Methodist Book of Discipline dating back to 1864 and 1828, and many other treasures. The group is now raising funds for an endowed scholarship for future religion students in her memory. Currently, $21,000 of their initial goal has been raised. You can make a gift to this special scholarship online. 

About Dr. Alice Wonders

In 1947, Wonders became an instructor of religion at Texas Wesleyan where she remained until her retirement in 1976. During her tenure, she served as the academic advisor for all ministerial students. In 1956, she became the Chair of the Division of Philosophy and Religion, becoming one of the first women in the U.S. to chair a religion department.

She was beloved by students, earning the student-awarded Order of the Golden Rule in 1952, 1954, 1962, 1963 and 1967. During her time at TXWES, Wonders was involved in numerous student organizations, including the Religious Life Council, the Methodist Student Movement, Chi Rho and Omega Chi, which started the Poly Christmas Party for community families in need. This December will mark the 53rd annual Polytechnic Christmas party. Dr. Wonders’ tremendous impact on students, faculty and the community at large is still felt today. Read more about Dr. Wonders and her work.

For more information about The Stars of Wonders group, contact Frank Johnson ’68 at 4alluknow@gmail.com.