The goal of higher education is to prepare people to be productive citizens, both professionally and as human beings. Dr. Edward S. Billings is an excellent example of the impact of a college education.
    A two-time team MVP while a member of the Pioneer basketball team under Coach Harley Redin from 1948-52, Billings completed his B.S. degree at Wayland in 1952, then went on to earn the M.S. from Baylor University in 1955 and the P.E.D. from Indiana University in 1969. Throughout his career he has utilized is coaching and administrative talents to make an impact on the lives of young people.
    After serving as an intelligence officer from 1953-54 in the United State Army, Billings enrolled in the graduate program at Baylor University. Upon graduation, he took a coaching position at Cisco Junior College in 1955-56 before returning to Wayland to coach from 1957-63. He was subsequently awarded a Fulbright Grant to serve as a guest lecturer to Lahe, West Pakistan, in the Government College of Physical Education in 1963-64.
    Billings returned to the U.S. and enrolled in the doctoral program at Indiana University. He returned to Wayland as athletic director from 1965-66, then moved to Houston to begin a long-term appointment with Houston Baptist University. While at HBU, Billings was professor and head of the Department of Health and Physical Education and director of athletics.
    During his tenure HBU became a charter member of the Trans America Athletic Conference and received numerous conference championships and national recognitions in sport. Billings effectively served at all levels, ranging from numerous committee assignments of HBU to membership on the NCAA Committee on Committees. He has been presided of both the Trans America Athletic Conference and the Academic Council at HBU.
    His professional memberships include American Alliance of Health; Physical Education and Recreation; National Collegiate Physical Education Association; National Collegiate Athletic Association; National Basketball Coaching Association; NCAA Golf Coaches Association; and NCAA Track Coaches Association.
    Billings and wife LaVaye have four children: Scott, Ranae, Sonii, and Jenny.