Texas Tech University System Chancellor Robert L. Duncan provided the following statement in support of former Texas Gov. Rick Perry’s appointment as the Secretary of the Department of Energy, which was confirmed today [Thursday] with a bipartisan vote in the U.S. Senate.
“Rick Perry has earned his reputation as a hard worker and legislator who’s not afraid to make the hard choices for the right reasons,” Duncan said. “Beginning with his time in the Texas House of Representatives, his work on the state budget was resolute and showed the signs of a leader willing to dig deep and work hard to find solutions.
“I was privileged to serve under Gov. Perry in the Texas Senate while he served as lieutenant governor. His leadership in the Senate came at a time of great transition and change for the state. His ability to negotiate tough solutions with members of both parties was critical. As he moved into the governor’s office, he had amassed a wealth of knowledge and experience that would be applied to his role as CEO of the state.
“During his tenure as governor, he was determined to improve the infrastructure and sustainability of Texas. He had great ideas and implemented plans for our state’s transportation, business development and water needs. Gov. Perry was also committed to energy generation and development from wind and other sources in the state, and helped make key advancements by supporting new energy technologies through the Texas Emerging Technology Fund.
“I believe Rick Perry’s ability and commitment to lead will be an asset to the U.S. Department of Energy, the new administration and our nation.”
Duncan became the fourth chancellor of the Texas Tech University System on July 7, 2014. Before becoming chancellor, Duncan served in the Texas Legislature for more than two decades. He was elected to District 84 in the Texas House of Representatives in 1992. In 1996, he won a special election to the Texas Senate, where he served until resigning to become chancellor.
(Press release from Texas Tech University System)
