While we deeply appreciate and recognize the service and valuable contributions of our volunteers, leaders, and staff to the Society, we reserve the title "Fellow" for a few rare folks. Contributions by these individuals include promotion of the Society, recruiting members, fundraising, giving outstanding papers, writing for our publications, mentoring new members, and serving on our board.
When John Avery Lomax and L.W. Payne, Jr., were honored in 1941, it was said "In order to honor individuals who have done outstanding work for the Texas Folk-Lore Society and in the field of Texas and Southwestern folk-lore, the Society voted to make John A. Lomax and L. W. Payne, Jr., Fellows, it being understood that other names may from time to time be elected to the list." (Abernethy, The Texas Folklore Society, 1909-1943, Volume I, p263).