For a 64-year-old,white haired Benjamin Franklin look-alike, Dr. Aubrey D. Sharpe, dean of continuing studies, lives life as though he was still 21.
In addition to his duties as dean, he juggles being an author of the autobiographical “Man About Town” articles in BScene magazine. Even though he is a member of numerous boards and councils and a husband, Sharpe happily finds time to attend parties and functions around the Tyler area.
Six years ago, Sharpe was approached by President/CEO of BScene Shawn Michael Haney to write articles based on parties, places and people throughout Tyler.
Haney considers Sharpe to be a “powerful force” for the magazine and gave him complete ownership of the “Man About Town” article.
Since the article is all about Sharpe, he has the privilege of basically doing anything he wants.
“Everyone knows and likes Aubrey,” said Will Knous, editor of BScene. “He is the life of every party.”
Because of his busy lifestyle outside of the college, getting a hold of Sharpe at work is nearly impossible. He is also immediate past president of the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce.
His office is organized, spacious, and comfortable, but things can’t get messy when the man is constantly being pulled away for his various responsibilities.
“I’m the luckiest guy in the world,” said Sharpe of his philosophy on life.
“Life’s a great ride. My work is play, and play is work. I have the best staff, and it entertains me when they try to figure out which one I am doing at the time,” said Sharpe.
Sharpe’s most memorable outing was having a guy’s night out, a mobile party with former state representatives, a federal judge, and other friends from the Tyler community.
The group rented a limousine and driver and headed to Shreveport. Between 10 men, a three-hour drive, and beverages, bonding became easier than ever.
Sharpe lives his life based on the gospel song, “Let the Sunshine In.” “Let the sunshine in, face it with a grin, smilers never lose, and frowners never win.”
“If a person is unhappy, it’s their own fault,” said Sharpe.
Sharpe has not criticized anyone or anything in his articles.
“That’s not what I do,” he said.
His attitude is infectious and his appearance is “Dapper Dan” style.
“People enjoy him,” said Knous,”because he’s not there to get, he’s there to give.”
Haney and Knous have been asked by readers who will be the next Aubrey Sharpe if he decides not to write for the magazine anymore.
“He is absolutely invested in his work, and it will be hard to fill those heavily-shined shoes,” said Knous.
Haney added, “Still to this day, we haven’t found anyone quite like him.”
