Barney Elder, Class of 1950, was a four-year starter in football as a guard on both offense and defense. As a two-time member of the all-conference team, Elder is remembered by his peers as the inspirational leader of the team as he motivated and encouraged his teammates by example.
Off the field, Elder was a member of the Blue Key fraternity, elected “Joe College” his junior year, and frequently acted in campus stage productions.
After graduation, Elder was instrumental in raising funds to same Fleming Hall in his capacity as president of the Western New Mexico University Alumni Association.
After a 20-year career as a coach, teacher, and school administrator, Elder began a career in Las Cruces, New Mexico as an agent for the Great American Reserve Insurance Company. He qualified for every sales award the company offered. As was the case in football, he was recognized by his co-workers not only for his production but for his leadership. In 1986, he received the Travis T. Wallace Award, a “Heart Award” named after the company founder and awarded based on general character and unselfish support for others.
Elder passed away on April 5, 1987.
