B.W. Aston Fall Break

As the autumn leaves fall and the temperature drops at Hardin-Simmons University, students anxiously await the arrival of fall break. The campus calendar lists the long weekend as “B.W. Aston Fall Break” and syllabi read “No Class- B.W. Aston Day,” however, few students know why the weekend is named for Dr. Aston.

Dr. Aston on Western Heritage Day

Dr. B.W. Aston served HSU in multiple capacities. He served as chair of the Hardin-Simmons History Department from 1972-92, dean of the College of Liberal Arts from 2000-01, director of the evening college 1972–78, head of the Rupert Richardson Research Center from 1981 to 2002, and more. Aston was also a core founder of Western Heritage Day.  President Emeritus, Dr. Lanny Hall, described Dr. Aston by stating, “[Aston] was one of HSU’s greats.”

Dr. Aston was an adventurous spirit with a passion for travel, visiting all 50 states and approximately 70 countries around the world. This spirit of adventure led Aston to advocate for a fall break during his 35 years at Hardin-Simmons. Dr. Aston cared for his students and understood the need for a pressure release during the midpoint of the semester. Finally, after 35 years, the university created B.W. Aston Fall Break in recognition of Aston’s advocacy for students and his contributions to the university.

Dr. Aston Speaking at Inaugural Luncheon in 1978.

Dr. Aston passed away in 2010, but his legacy lives on around campus and in the lives of many alumni. Former student, Kathy Kennedy ‘94 wrote about Dr. Aston’s impact on her life by saying, “He lived life to make a difference.” Many see “B.W. Aston Fall Break” on the calendar each year and are reminded of their friend and mentor and look back on his impact with fond memories.

Whether you are packing your bags to see family, heading on a great adventure, or taking a day to recharge this fall break, consider how you can live to make a difference in the spirit of B.W. Aston.