Dr. Ed Buckingham: National American University’s Commitment to Education
Q&A Interview with Dr. Ed Buckingham
Edward Buckingham, MD is a member of our Board of Governors and currently is the Director of the Buckingham Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Austin, Texas. His post-graduate training consisted of an internship at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston from July 1997 – June 1998. Dr. Buckingham completed his residency training consisting of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston from July 1998-June 2002. He then completed his fellowship training for the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the New England Laser and Cosmetic Surgery Center in Albany, New York from July 2002-June 2003. Some of Dr. Buckingham’s past positions include working at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston as a Clinical Assistant Professor, Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology. He also worked at the Albany Medical Center from July 2002-June 2003 as the Attending Surgeon, Clinical Instructor, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery/Division of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery.
Q: Can you tell us about your grandfather, Harold Buckingham, and his vision for NAU?
A: Harold Buckingham was a visionary who purchased National School of Business in 1963, which later became National American University. He aspired to become a teacher, but was unable to find a teaching position during the depths of the Great Depression. Although he went on to become a successful businessman, Mr. Buckingham remained a passionate advocate for higher learning and firmly believed that quality educational opportunities and a better quality of life should exist for every person who desired them.
Q: What were some key achievements that defined your grandfather’s legacy?
A: Harold Buckingham, an entrepreneur, started a small kerosene delivery business in the late 1920s and grew it into a thriving trucking company. He even negotiated labor agreements with Jimmy Hoffa. His innovative spirit extended to education, laying the foundation for NAU’s growth.
Q: How did NAU evolve from a single campus to a fully online university?
A: NAU transitioned from a traditional campus to multiple campuses and then became a pioneer in online education in 1996, well before the internet’s popularity. This adaptability ensured NAU’s relevance in the evolving educational landscape.
Q: How has NAU maintained its commitment to educational excellence and your grandfather’s vision?
A: NAU’s unwavering mission is to put students first. Our goal is to help every student achieve their educational dreams and pursue their life goals. This commitment drives the institution.
Q: Can you highlight the importance of NAU’s employees in fulfilling the institution’s mission?
A: NAU’s employees are crucial to our mission. They make the university whole and shape the NAU experience through their dedication and hard work.
Q: What role does the extended Buckingham family play in the NAU story?
A: The involvement of the extended family recognizes its least significant role in the institution’s priorities. Our privilege is to serve students, collaborate with employees and board members, and continuously improve the institution. Our shared passion for education drives us forward.
