Photograph of participants in the Willis Library during the 2015 Collaborating with Strangers professional development event.

Photograph of unidentified attendees at the UNT 2015 Faculty Excellence Awards. The guests are representing their Mean Green spirit with a hint of green on their formal attire.

Photograph of a group of unidentified men, one speaking into a microphone at the UNT 2015 Faculty Excellence Awards. They are showing off their UNT Mean Green Spirit with a green ties.

Photograph of a group of faculty staff award guests from the UNT 2015 Faculty Excellence Awards. Raina Joines (second from right), Senior Lecturer, Department of English. Nicole D. Smith (second from left), Associate Professor, English and other unidentified faculty award guests.

Photograph of the 2015 Homecoming Court riding on a float and waving to the crowd through downtown Denton, TX.

Photograph of the 2015 Homecoming Court riding on a float and waving to the crowd through downtown Denton, TX.

Photograph of Adjunct Professor Bryan Locchead teaching a student how to use a video camera at the Mayborn School of Journalism Broadcasting department.

Photograph of Adjunct Professor Bryan Locchead teaching a student how to use a video camera at the Mayborn School of Journalism Broadcasting department.

Photograph of the University of North Texas (UNT) Airforce recruits marching past the Denton courthouse during the 2015 Homecoming parade in Denton, TX.

Capture the spirit of the stars with Nudie Cohn's iconic cowboy boots, adorned in patriotic red, white, and blue hues that pay homage to the American dream. These boots, crafted with meticulous artistry, feature a majestic eagle design, symbolizing freedom and strength. Step into the legacy of Nudie Cohn and the stars who proudly donned his creations, embracing the essence of American pride in every stride.

Photograph of quarterback Andrew McNulty, (right), wide receiver O'Keeron Rutherford (center), and running back Willy Ivery (left). Rutherford and Ivery are seen talking to one another. McNulty is looking off at something not visible.

In recognition of his exceptional songwriting prowess, the Academy of Country & Western Music honors Kris Kristofferson with the prestigious Songwriting Excellence Award for his timeless composition "For the Good Times." Originally recorded by Bill Nash in 1968, the song gained immense popularity when Ray Price's rendition topped the charts in June 1970. This masterpiece solidified Kristofferson's position as one of country and popular music's finest songwriters while marking a triumphant return for Price after a decade-long gap between chart-topping hits. Kristoffer Kristofferson's remarkable contributions as a country singer, songwriter, and actor continue to inspire generations, making him an enduring icon in the industry.

Vibrant festivities unfold in Mount Vernon as the community commemorates the Bankhead Highway Centennial. This historic highway, once named "The Broadway of America," is deeply intertwined with the town's identity, serving as its Main Street. Amongst the revelry, a captivating mural depicting the towering silhouette of Henry Clay Thruston adds to the charm, while jubilant locals don playful costumes, celebrating their rich heritage with joy and pride.

Step back in time on the Original Texas Road Trip along the historic Bankhead Highway in Mount Vernon. Follow County Road 2025, a picturesque dirt trail enveloped by a lush tree canopy, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era. Join the Bankhead Highway Centennial Vintage Car Tour, where classic cars traverse the scenic landscape, offering a delightful journey into the past.

Draft of an article about Bankhead Highway that was published in the October 2015 issue of Texas Highways magazine.

Photograph of Bess [last name not identified] from Miami, Florida at the 2015 Collaborating with Strangers event held in the Willis Library.

Step into the enthralling world of James Robert Wills, better known as Bob Wills, as you explore the fascinating museum label at the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame. Delve into the life of the visionary musician, bandleader, and songwriter hailed as the founder of Western swing. Discover his musical journey, from forming the iconic Texas Playboys in 1934 to achieving nationwide fame with chart-topping hits like "San Antonio Rose" and "Faded Love." Immerse yourself in the jazz-inspired arrangements and soulful "ah-haa" calls that defined Wills' signature sound. Uncover the King of Western Swing's legacy, celebrated with honors from the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, leaving an indelible mark on American music.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Buck Owens at the captivating display booth in the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame. Uncover the remarkable life of the Bakersfield sound pioneer through an engaging museum label, detailing key milestones in his illustrious career. Admire the iconic blazer set once owned by the legendary musician, evoking memories of his electrifying performances. Journey through time with framed pictures capturing Buck Owens' cherished childhood moments, and marvel at the larger-than-life posters commemorating his meteoric rise to fame. Don't miss the chance to see and feel the magic as you lay eyes on the very guitar that accompanied this musical legend on his legendary journey.

Step into the captivating world of Alvis Edgar "Buck" Owens Jr., affectionately known as Buck Owens, as you explore the esteemed museum label at the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame. Discover the trailblazing musician, singer, songwriter, and band leader who pioneered the iconic Bakersfield sound. Dive into the essence of "American music" that Owens created, drawing inspiration from his beloved Bakersfield, California. Delight in the infectious choruses, twangy electric guitar, and heartfelt vocal harmonies that defined Buck Owens and the Buckaroos' 21 No. 1 hits on the Billboard country music chart. Uncover the enduring legacy of this Country Music Hall of Fame and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, whose music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Photograph of unidentified football player at the UNT Homecoming football game of 2015 against Portland State University.

Photograph of a cannon being fired off at the UNT Homecoming Football Game of 2015 against Portland State University. There is a woman on the right, closing her eyes shut and covering her ears.

Get up close and personal with the talented artists as they bring the essence of country music to life on the mini theatre stage. Dressed in authentic cowboy outfits and hats, their heartfelt performance captivates the audience in the alluring red interior. Witness the passion and skill of these musicians as they honor the legacy of country music's greats, surrounded by posters celebrating the major inductees and their iconic work.

This vintage photograph showcases the legendary country artist at his best, adorned in a striking red jacket embellished with golden beads. Witness the charisma and talent that made him a trailblazer in the world of country music, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and the history of the genre.

At the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame and Tex Ritter Museum in Carthage, visitors find themselves immersed in the captivating world of Jimmy Dean, the esteemed "Dean of Country Music." In this heartwarming photograph, a delightful couple, including the radiant Lorraine Shumaker, stands joyfully in front of the Jimmy Dean exhibit, celebrating the legacy of this West Texas farmboy turned iconic country music figure. As they capture cherished memories, the exhibit pays tribute to Jimmy Dean's legendary career, from his chart-topping hits like "Big Bad John" to his remarkable journey in television and acting. A true testament to the enduring impact of a remarkable artist.