Dr. James Tichenor Honorary Fund

We often celebrate an individual’s contributions by the number of years they have fulfilled their duties. By this measure, an individual who has faithfully served Truman State University and its promising students since 1969 has made nearly unparalleled contributions. However, the contributions of Dr. James Tichenor are far greater when another measure is applied…the far reaching impact that he has had on the lives he has touched, the minds he has inspired, and the careers he has helped launch.

The journey that brought Dr. Tichenor to Truman was both fateful and familiar. Upon completion of his master’s degree in clinical psychology, Dr. Tichenor decided he would like to teach awhile. After being invited to interview for an open position at Northeast Missouri State College he headed out on his first trip to Kirksville. This initial visit not only resulted in a significant detour after losing his way while traveling through Iowa, but it also landed him the position of assistant professor of psychology. He accepted the offer only after reassuring his wife, Teresa, that it would be a maximum of a year of employment. More than 40 years later, Dr. Tichenor has left a lasting imprint on Truman through such accomplishments as reform of the psychology curriculum, support of the institution and his colleagues as the mission change transformed the University and a daily commitment to provide meaningful and enriching experiences for the students who fill his classroom.

The Dr. James Tichenor Honorary Fund has been created to recognize this extraordinary colleague, teacher, and friend for his distinguished service to Truman State University. Reaching the fundraising goal of $50,000 will ensure the creation of the following:

The Dr. James Tichenor Endowed Scholarship in Psychology.

Few gift opportunities have a more direct impact than providing a financial helping hand in the education process. Scholarships help attract students to Truman and allow qualified students with significant financial need the opportunity to enroll at Truman. The University also competes with the nation’s highly selective colleges, most with robust scholarship endowments, for academically-talented students.

The Dr. James Tichenor Psychology Classroom

Naming a classroom, laboratory or facility is a lasting testament to the dedication and passion for teaching that are often hallmarks of a beloved educator. It is a meaningful expression of the deep appreciation felt for the knowledge and encouragement that inspires a life-long love of learning.

Dr. James Tichenor: An Extraordinary Teacher/Scholar

Dr. Tichenor’s teaching interests encompass diverse applied areas within psychology including the use of empirical methods in the assessment and treatment of behavior disorders. Particular emphasis is placed on a broadly interpreted behavioral approach to understanding human behavior. Of particular interest are courses in behavior modification, psychological testing, child psychopathology, and clinical psychology. His current applied research focuses on the development of alternative treatment approaches for children with behavioral difficulties, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and parent training.

Tichenor has left a lasting imprint on Truman. Alumni, faculty, staff and friends are asked to make a generous contribution to the Dr. James Tichenor Honorary Fund in recognition of Dr. Tichenor’s distinguished service to Truman State University.