DENTON (UNT), Texas — Dr. Paden Neeley, accounting professor at the University of North Texas College of Business Administration, has received the university's Honorary Alumnus Award. The award is presented annually to an individual who never attended UNT, but who has exhibited outstanding devotion, service and support to the university. Neeley, a Lewisville resident, was presented with the award during UNT's Alumni Awards Dinner April 12. The annual event honors alumni and others who have provided service and support to the university. From 1973 to 1999, Neeley served as the founding director and president of UNT's Professional Development Institute, a not-for-profit education corporation specializing in continuing education and certification for business professionals. PDI received the UNT President's award in 1994. Dr. Neeley has worked in the College of Business Administration since 1960. He is currently on modified retirement. After receiving his bachelor's degree at Arkansas State University in 1956, Neeley earned a master's of business administration from University of Arkansas only one year later. In 1961, he became the first person to obtain a doctorate in accounting from the University of Arkansas.Neeley is the author of four accounting textbooks and serves on the board of directors of several Metroplex area business and organizations. He is also the recipient of several teaching awards, including the UNT Alumni Distinguished Teaching Award.