Dr. Rae Banks Adams, professor emerita of sociology at Abilene Christian University, passed away Nov. 15, in Tyler at the age of 78. Adams served as a professor of sociology, as well as the director of ACU's Pruett Gerontology Center, previously known as the Center for the Study of Aging.
"Dr. Adams was a campus leader among faculty from almost the time she first came," said Dr. Royce Money, president of ACU. "She was instrumental in the development of the gerontology program and the Center for the Study of Aging."
Adams began her career at ACU in January 1983, as an associate professor of sociology. During her time at the university, she served on the Graduate
Council, University Academic Council, College Academic Council and the Core
Curriculum Committee. She retired from ACU in 1997 and later moved to Tyler
in 1999.
"I doubt seriously that I would personally be on faculty at ACU or in my position as the Center Director, had it not been for the encouragement, or should I say, the unique pressure exerted from my favorite sociology professor and mentor, Dr Adams," said Dr. Charlie Pruett, assistant professor and director of the Pruett Gerontology Center. "The Center would not be a strong, vital program at ACU today, except for the vision, dedication, and personal sacrifice of Rae Adams. Now, community organizations and churches offer services to aging individuals, due to Rae's diligent work in and out of the classroom at ACU."
Adams had many interests, including in the study of social ethics and the woman in a professional setting. She wrote a chapter on gerontology and clinical sociology for the first edition of a textbook titled Handbook of Clinical Sociology, and served five years as a writer for Christian Family Magazine.
Before coming to Abilene, Adams first found her love of teaching at Dallas Fashion Merchandising College, where she taught a course after serving as a partner in a clothing design and marketing business. Prior to teaching, Adams was a runway model, couture dress designer and appeared in television commercials.Adams enjoyed the teaching position in Dallas so much that she returned to school in 1970 and received her bachelor's degree in secondary education in communication and English from North Texas State University in 1948. She earned her master's degree and doctoral degree in sociology from Texas Women's University.
Adams is survived by her husband, Edward, and their children Vicki and Randy.
A memorial service was held Nov. 18 in Tyler. Memorials can be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or to the Christian Homes and Family Services in Tyler.If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact ACU's Public Relations Office or call (325) 674-2692.
