Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Richard B. “Rick” McCaslin, Ph.D., as the Texas State Historian for a term ending December 17, 2027. The position of State Historian involves increasing public knowledge about Texas history, promoting its teaching in public schools, consulting with state leaders on historical matters, and making presentations on related topics.
McCaslin is Director of Publications for the Texas State Historical Association (TSHA) and previously served as Professor of Texas History at the University of North Texas. He is recognized as a Fellow of the TSHA and has authored or edited twenty-one books, eight of which have received awards. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from Delta State University, a Master of Arts in History from Louisiana State University, and a Doctorate from The University of Texas at Austin.
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott is part of the executive branch and operates statewide across Texas, with its main offices located in Austin at the State Insurance Building according to its official website. Governor Abbott has led this office since his election in 2014 and has focused on job creation, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and southern border security [source]. The office also collaborates with various organizations on economic development initiatives [source].
