2022 Distinguished Baylor Black Alumni Award Winners

Honoring Baylor Black Alumni who, through service, have earned the respect and approval of peers and colleagues in their communities, professions, and vocations.

Col. Patrice Holmes, B.S. '97

Col. Holmes is the commander of the 28th Mission Support Group, Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota. She leads a group of nearly 2,000 military, civilian and contractor professionals in planning, organizing, coordinating and implementing installation services and support to more than 7,740 military and civilian personnel and their families. She has received numerous major awards and decorations, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal, among others.

Larry W. Coffer II, B.S.Ed. '00, M.S.Ed. '06

Coffer is a research administrator at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he manages the research activities for the Department of Breast Medical Oncology and the Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic. At MD Anderson, Coffer also serves as a guest lecturer for the Cancer Research Administration and Management Certificate Program and volunteers to assist with fundraising and diversity efforts. He recently was recognized with a Citation for Excellence Award for Laboratory Research, a top honor at MD Anderson.

Pearlie Beverly, M.S.Ed. '01

Beverly is director of the Department of Multicultural Affairs within Student Life at Baylor. Her team encourages students to celebrate their personal heritage and embrace the cultures of others through education, communication and involvement in the various student organizations, as well as helping with the presentation of cultural awareness programs on campus. Beverly loves students and has seen the population of minority students grow from 11 percent to 38 percent since her arrival at Baylor in 1988.