Lake LU. Pre-professional programs were established, and the first Ira D. Pruitt Division of Nursing class earned associate degrees in 1976. Overall, 153 degrees were awarded during commencement exercises in May that same year. In 1977, Dr. Ralph M. Lyon, university educator and administrator, retired from his position, and was honored for his tenure. His wife presented the university with a handcrafted ceremonial mace in his dedication. The mace is used at yearly commencement exercises. Not long after the 1977 commencement, history professor William E. Gilbert was found dead off campus. In the early 1980s, a new computer system was installed on campus to support the university's computer information processing systems major. During the 1985–1986 academic year, the university observed its 150th anniversary. After Green resigned, Don C. Hines (1994–1998) assumed the post of president and brought additional change. Today, the rodeo complex on campus is named in his honor. Among students, Hines is most remembered for bringing collegiate rodeo to campus. UWA competes in the Ozark Region and has won regional championships in both the men and women's divisions. In addition, individual competitors have placed nationally in bull-riding and barrel racing. Hines brought more computers to campus and established new programs in psychology and forestry. In 1995, despite a lack of support for a name change, the institution, considering that its regional educational mission was not reflected in its name (some thought that it sounded like a private school), adopted the name The University of West Alabama. Ed Roach (1998–2002) assumed the presidency in 1998 and set about integrating technology into every aspect of UWA life. He established the Technology 2000 campaign and helped establish UWA as one of the first wireless institutions in the region. Women's sports received a boost under his leadership. During this period, the UWA Softball Complex was completed. In February 2002, he stepped down from his position as president. The Board of Trustees met to choose a replacement on an interim basis from university employees David Taylor, Richard Holland, Roy Underwood, and Clemit Spruiell. Present day Richard Holland, an alumnus of the institution and former dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, was selected by trustees to take over the position. Six months later, he was named the next university president by a unanimous vote. Holland is the first UWA graduate to serve as president. However, UWA's board of trustees placed him